Mold. Most people cringe at the thought. They see dollar signs and think, “This is going to be expensive.” Darryl Morris, author, “The Mold Code Mini Handbook” – a free, digital, downloadable guide – explains that it doesn’t have to be. He’s the president of Know Mold and has been working with people in the Naperville and Chicagoland region for more than 10 years. When it comes to mold he believes in prevention and proactivity first. He shares mold cleaning tips and much more. 

​This guide reveals everything you ever wanted to know about recognizing, controlling and getting rid of mold, but were afraid to ask. After collaborating with other industry experts, Morris shares more than 100 simple solutions to common mold problems. His no-nonsense approach to mold is quickly making him a trusted and leading industry expert and people are taking notice.

“Forget about the Internet. Everything you need to know about mold can be found in the ‘Mold Code,’ ” Edward Drellack, Code Enforcement Offices for the Village of Bartlett, Health Department, says. 
Rich Sumner, building inspector for the Village of Chicago Ridge, agrees. He says, “‘Mold Code’ addresses the cause, problem and solution.”

This easy-to-read, downloadable guide is proving to be a must-have resource for just about anyone who has mold concerns. The “Mold Code Mini Handbook” is a complete step-by-step guide for making homes and buildings safe again. 

“We’ve done all the work, so you don’t have to,” Morris says. 

Mold Questions Answered; Mold Myths Debunked
When people hear the word “mold,” more often than not, they think it’s cause for concern. That’s not always the case. In the “Mold Code,” Morris explains what to look for, gives tips for how to clean it and how to prevent it. He explains why some people should test for mold, while others don’t have to. Common questions addressed include: 

• I have mold in my house. Is it dangerous?
• How do I deal with moisture and humidity problems? 
• How do I fix damp crawl spaces? 
• Should I clean my air ducts?
• Is it normal to have moisture collect on my windows? 
• Do I have a leak in my basement? 

In addition to answering questions, he also provides tips for things like how to turn your furnace into a mold cleaning machine, how to fix damp crawl spaces and provides advice on what types of furnace filters are best. 

Know Mold provides people with solutions, not problems. It encourages prevention and demonstrates that mediation is not always necessary. It’s honest and that gives people peace of mind. 
So, be proactive. Be part of the solution. Download “The Mold Code Mini Handbook.”  You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain. 

​Are you about to embark on a remodel project? Congratulations. It’s an exciting process that can return many rewards. Remodeling a property can improve value, create a healthier environment and provide a place that you can truly call home. But, before you start knocking down walls, make sure you test for asbestos first. 

Why should I conduct asbestos testing?   
Asbestos was widely used for many years before the EPA placed restrictions on how it could be used during the 70s. It can be present in many types of building materials, such as wrapping around pipes, drywall taping, popcorn ceiling materials, attic insulation and much more. It’s not easy to identify and can be hidden in spaces that you’ll only uncover during the demolition process. The only way to find out if your home has asbestos is to have a sample analyzed at a laboratory. So, your first concern should be safety and then you can start the project of your dreams. 
Testing for asbestos is not cause for concern. In fact, it should provide peace of mind as you work towards achieving a beautiful new home. There’s a good chance that even if you do have asbestos that, if left undisturbed, it may not cause a problem at all. So, why take a chance? Find a trained and accredited asbestos professional to help. He or she will be able to take samples for analysis, since a professional knows what to look for, and because there may be an increased health risk if fibers are released. In fact, if done incorrectly, sampling can be more hazardous than leaving the material alone. So, hire an asbestos testing firm to do the dirty work. 

​Do this

• Hire an asbestos testing professional who has no hidden agenda. The asbestos testing company you hire should not have any connection to asbestos repair or removal services.  
• Ask the asbestos testing company about their certifications and credibility. Are they accredited? Are they part of the Better Business Bureau? Have they completed any mandatory training? Are they state approved? 

Don’t do this

• Inspections to determine the presence of asbestos must be performed by certified asbestos inspectors so don’t try to do it yourself. 
• Don’t start remodeling before you test. Asbestos that is disturbed during the demolition process can release hazardous fibers into the air and cause a host of dangerous health-related problems (i.e., mesothelioma). 

So, if you’re about to remodel, assume that asbestos is lurking somewhere. Even though the EPA placed restrictions on its use, it’s not banned altogether. Whether used in wall insulation or siding or even old paint, there’s a chance you’ve got it, so test for asbestos for peace of mind. Just follow the do’s and don’ts and you’ll be in remodel mode in no time.