PacificDecon

Tag: Deodorization

  • Vehicles Are A Petri Dish of Germs, Viruses and Harmful Bacteria

    Vehicles Are A Petri Dish of Germs, Viruses and Harmful Bacteria

    Vehicle owners in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni are particularly prone to repeated mold due to their proximity to moisture, which leave serious health hazards. Not every mold remediation company is thorough in their elimination and decontamination techniques.

    The average person spends 600 hours a year in their vehicle. Along for the ride are some unwanted guests that live in your vehicle interior and HVAC system – a damp, dark place ideal for breeding colonies of bacteria, molds, mildews and their associated odors.

    WHAT IS PACIFIC DECON?

    There is no doubt that our vehicles have become an integral part of our family lives. As life gets busier we spend more and more time driving… to and from work, dropping kids off at a practice, grabbing coffee with friends, and running errands with the dog.

    Spilled food, pets, and passengers who transfer allergens and germs to everything they touch, make cars the perfect breeding grounds for harmful germs and toxic molds.

    PACIFIC DECON offers a revolutionary, health protection program that keeps your family safe from these biohazards that lurk in even the cleanest looking vehicles.

    HOW WILL PACIFIC DECON HELP MY FAMILY?

    A study done by the Harvard Health Watch found that the average person spends over 600 hours per year in their vehicle! Your ride has become your office, your closet, and sometimes, even your dining room.

    We are spending more and more time in our cars so it is important to know just how safe our vehicles really are. And how about a buying a pre-owned car? Most of us have no way of knowing what went on in that vehicle before we owned it so why leave it to chance.

    Consider these facts. A study done by Queen Mary University in London discovered that, on average, there are 700 different kinds of bacteria that live within car interiors. Compare that with only 60 types found on public toilet seats! Your steering wheel alone can harbor 9 times more germs than a public washroom! Not only that, it is likely some of the most dangerous bacteria and viruses are riding around with you and your family.

    Right about now you may be thinking, “that’s not my vehicle, I keep it clean”. The unfortunate reality is that even the cleanest looking vehicles are at risk. Similar tests have found Staph, E-Coli, Salmonella and even MRSA bacteria in otherwise clean vehicles, most notably those carrying kids and pets. Many of these bacteria can survive in a vehicle for months residing on dashboards, steering wheels and gear shifts.
    Your vehicle, with its exposure to heat and moisture, is a perfect breeding ground for germ and mold colonies that spread every time you touch them or turn on the car’s HVAC system. Add to that the environmental allergens that find their way into your vehicle and you have a moving Petri dish of germs, molds and mildews that pose an increasing health risk for your family.

    We know you are busy and it’s hard to find time to constantly keep your vehicle clean. Not to worry, we have you covered! The PACIFIC DECON Program keeps your family safe from what is lurking in your car.
    HOW SAFE IS PACIFIC DECON?

    PACIFIC DECON is without a doubt the safest, most effective, health protection program for you and your family vehicles. PACIFIC DECON is safe for:

    Families with young children who are much more susceptible than adults to harmful germs and toxic molds.

    Elderly people, including those with COPD and other respiratory illnesses, who are at greater risk from airborne bacteria and viruses such as the flu or influenza.

    Pets, who leave behind whatever they have brought in from the outdoors including fecal matter, the occasional flea or tick, and that lovely “wet dog smell”.

    People with environmental allergies or sensitivities, who often suffer as the vehicle HVAC system blows around pollens and mold spores.

    Pacific Decontamination Services is without a doubt the safest, most effective, health protection program for you and your family vehicle – How It Works

    A PACIFIC DECON TREATMENT FOR YOUR VEHICLE IS AFFORDABLE, EFFECTIVE and SAFE.    Just $99

     

  • Pet Odor Removal

    Pet Odor Removal

    Pets are members of the family and the odors they bring into your household, or vehicle doesn’t trump the love. That is why most pet owners accept that the smell is part of the job. However, permanently neutralizing pet odors is possible and makes for a happier home. Pet odor removal is a particularly cumbersome task because once set; the smell can permanently damage the floor, carpet, furniture, and vehicle interior.

    Why is pet odor removal so difficult? Primarily, it is the chemical makeup that causes the odor. Urine, for example, is rich in nitrogen and can have a strong ammonia smell. Other waste products contain foul-smelling bacteria. When you combine these strong odors with improper cleanup, you are stuck with a smell that won’t go away.

    When accidents happen, the liquid doesn’t just sit on the surface. It seeps down into the fibrous material. That is where odor lives, and can be the most difficult place to reach. Homeowners get used to the smell and fail to realize it remains after they clean up.

    Wet Dog Smell – The specific oil is called Sebum, it collects on the hair shaft and follicles to protect a dog’s skin from dehydration. When the dog gets wet, like after a day at the beach or a bath, the oil and the water together create a bacteria which causes the unpleasant odor.

    Urine – Urine is the worst offender because it not only produces a lingering smell but can also actually damage the dyes and fibers in the rug.

    Vomit – Stomach acid has the potential to harm any surface, including carpets.

    Fecal matter – Most damage from fecal matter comes due to improper cleanup. Rubbing the area embeds the waste into the carpet fibers and backing where is can cause permanent problems.

    Kennel cough – Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, often referred to as a kennel cough, is a contagious disease found where groups of dogs are gathered. It is often spread at dog parks, dog shows, day cares and boarding facilities.

    Do It Yourself vs. Professional Services by Pacific Decontamination
    The majority of pet odor removal requires professional service. Over the counter, products are stopgap measures at best. They claim to make the odor go away, however, what they do is cover it up. The combination of the fragrance and the family’s desensitization to the smell is just a temporary fix.

    Our professional service takes a more scientific approach to the problem. The goal is neutralization, not masking. Commercial removal products will counteract the smell instead of covering it up.

    What is the answer to pet odors? Do your best to spot clean the area yourself first. Rubbing alcohol, watered-down ammonia, and an enzyme detergent will help remove all odors, at least temporarily, but for extensive problems, you will need the services of Pacific Decontamination.

    The Solution
    Our professional, on-site service, effectively neutralizes up to 99.99999% of all bacteria, allergen, fungus, viruses, spores, germs, chemical and biological hazards in your home, vehicle or office. This includes the     elimination of all pet odors and potential neutralization of the spread of kennel cough.

    We use the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, non-corrosive, contains zero VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and biodegradable.

    Our treatment leaves a non-toxic pH neutral residual barrier to prevent re-growth of bacteria, viruses, and other types of contaminants. We build a shield for you that offers constant protection to you and your pet, and we do so in a way that is verifiable and affordable.

    Contact Us – We Can Help – Starting at $99.99

     

  • Why You Should Avoid Air Purifiers that Produce Ozone

    Why You Should Avoid Air Purifiers that Produce Ozone


    Air purifiers that produce ozone are potentially dangerous for homeowners in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    Not only is ozone potentially dangerous to your health, it may not even work at all. Below are warnings from the EPA and four reasons why you should never use an air purifier that produces ozone.

    Direct warning from the United States Environmental Protection Agency You Must Read This!

    https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/ozone-generators-are-sold-air-cleaners

    Whether in its pure form or mixed with other chemicals, ozone can be harmful to health.

    When inhaled, ozone can damage the lungs. Relatively low amounts of ozone can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and, throat irritation. It may also worsen chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma as well as compromise the ability of the body to fight respiratory infections.

    Some studies show that ozone concentrations produced by ozone generators can exceed health standards even when one follows manufacturer’s instructions.

    Many factors affect ozone concentrations including the amount of ozone produced by the machine(s), the size of the indoor space, the amount of material in the room with which ozone reacts, the outdoor ozone concentration, and the amount of ventilation. These factors make it difficult to control the ozone concentration in all circumstances.

    Available scientific evidence shows that, at concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone is generally ineffective in controlling indoor air pollution.

    The concentration of ozone would have to greatly exceed health standards to be effective in removing most indoor air contaminants. In the process of reacting with chemicals indoors, ozone can produce other chemicals that themselves can be irritating and corrosive.

    Recommendation

    The public is advised to use proven methods of controlling indoor air pollution. These methods include eliminating or controlling pollutant sources, increasing outdoor air ventilation and using proven methods of air cleaning.

    4 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Air Purifiers that Produce Ozone

    1. Ozone Generators May Not Work at All

    Some manufacturers suggest that ozone will render nearly every chemical contaminant in the home harmless by producing a chemical reaction. This is incredibly misleading because a thorough review of scientific research has shown that in order for many of the dangerous chemicals found indoors to be eliminated the chemical reaction process may take months or even years. Other studies have also (PDF) noted that ozone cannot effectively remove carbon monoxide or from outside. If used at concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone applied to indoor air pollution does not effectively remove viruses, mold, bacteria, or other biological pollutants.

    2. The Chemical Reaction Can Be Dangerous

    Even if ozone generators were proven to be effective at eliminating these chemicals, there are certain side effects everyone must be aware of. Many of the chemicals ozone reacts to results in a variety of harmful by-products. For example, when ozone was mixed with chemicals from new carpet in a laboratory setting, the ozone reduced many of the chemicals but created a variety of dangerous organic chemicals in the air. While the target chemicals were reduced, the dangerous by-products rendered the process moved.

    3. Ozone Generators Do Not Remove Particulates

    A third factor to consider when looking at ozone generators is that they do not remove particulates such as dust or pollen from the air. This includes the particles which are primarily responsible for allergic reactions. To combat this, some ozone generators include an ionizer which disperses negatively charged ions into the air. In recent analysis’s, this process was found to be less competent in the removal of air-borne molecules of dust, smoke, pollen, and mold spores than HEPA filters and electrostatic precipitators.

    4. It Is Impossible to Predict Exposure Levels

    The EPA notes that it is increasingly difficult to determine the actual concentration of ozone produced by an ozone generator because so many different factors come into play. Concentrations will be higher if more powerful devices used in smaller spaces. Whether or not the interior doors are closed rather than open will affect concentrations as well. Additional factors which affect concentration levels include how many materials and furnishings are in the room to react with ozone, the level of outdoor air ventilation, and the proximity of a person to the ozone generating device.

    What are some better solutions?

    There are other solutions that are much safer and more effective than using air purifiers that produce ozone.

    We neutralize the source of your odor and contamination by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical everywhere within your affected area that may be causing the odor. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. Our treatment eliminates all contaminants, including airborne, surface and sub-surface. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the area for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.9999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of odor and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

  • The Risks and Limitations When Using Ozone Generators to Remove Odors

    The Risks and Limitations When Using Ozone Generators to Remove Odors


    Ozone generators are ineffective at attacking the root of the problem!

    The use of ozone generators to remove odors in homes and vehicles offer poor results for homeowners in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    Research has found that ozone generators were not effective in removing odors and bacteria – especially surface bacteria.

    Manufacturers’ claims

    Manufacturers say that the highly reactive nature of ozone allows it to easily attach to pollution, especially odorous compounds like smoke and organic matter such as viruses, bacteria and mold spores. However, these claims are not backed up by sound science.

    Performance against mold and bacteria

    Research has found that ozone generators were not effective at stopping mold or bacteria growth in a standard hospital room, and would require unsafe levels of ozone to do the job at all (Dyas, Boughton, & Das, 1983). For mold growth, public health departments do not recommend using ozone generators for clean-up, saying that ozone even at high levels cannot control mold.

    Performance against VOCs

    You may be asking yourself, if ozone gas is effective at anything, it should work on other gaseous pollutants (specifically volatile organic compounds, or VOCs) right? Well, it might not, unless you wait for thousands of years in some cases. A research study (Boeniger, 1995) analyzed how long it would take to remove 14 of the most common organic compounds found in the air. It was found that at ozone concentrations of 100 ppb, it would take 880+ years for six of these pollutants to be broken down into half of their initial concentrations (half-lives). In fact, it would take more than 4,400 years for formaldehyde! Only one pollutant, styrene, was found to have a half-life of about 4 hours.

    Performance against particulates

    You must remember that ozone generators do not remove particulate matter like dust or pollen (which are often allergens) from the air.

    The EPA’s conclusion about effectiveness

    The EPA concludes from a review of scientific research that at concentrations that meet public health standards, ozone is not very effective at removing indoor air contaminants.

    Can ozone generators remove odors?

    The million dollar question for you might be whether ozone generators can remove odors from the air. That at least is what manufacturers claim to be the most common use for ozone generators in homes.

    However, the evidence is mixed as to whether ozone generators can remove most odors from the air. As mentioned above, ozone generators may not work efficiently at all for gases, namely volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as it could take hundreds of years for this process.

    Yet, some research reviewed by Britigan, Alshawa, and Nizkorodov (2006) has shown that ozone may be effective for certain types of VOCs (namely, those containing unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds). These types of VOCs are found in cooking oils, air fresheners, cleaning agents, etc. However, there is a big downside: other dangerous byproducts like formaldehyde can be released into the air when ozone reacts with these substances.

    Here is another important point: What you might perceive as odor removal may just be facade. Odors in a room could be masked by the smell of ozone being released into the air. Many people who use ozone generators like the smell that is produced, describing it as a “clean sheet smell” or the smell of clothes fresh from the dryer (EPA, 1995).

    What are the safety precautions of ozone generators?

    Ultimately, you need to know that no agency of the federal government has approved using ozone generators in occupied spaces. If you must use one or have no choice in a certain situation, you should take every measure possible to make sure they are never used when people or animals are present in the room. Plants also should be kept outside of the area.

    Many times, if ozone generators are used, they are used for commercial cleaning in hotels, cars, etc. Many hotels use them inside a room just before new guests arrive, which can be harmful because of any residual ozone that lingers in the air. Manufacturers of ozone generators recommend they only be used by trained professionals for odor removal, and that all other steps, like cleaning the area and removing any sources of the odor, should be done first.

    What are some better solutions?

    There are other solutions that are much safer and more effective than using an ozone generator.

    We neutralize the source of your contamination by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical everywhere within your affected area that may be causing the odor. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. Our treatment eliminates all contaminants, including airborne, surface and sub-surface. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the area for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of odor and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

  • Mold in a Car – The Health Risks

    Mold in a Car – The Health Risks

    A number of health risks are associated with exposure to mold. Mold exposure is very common for vehicle owners living in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.  Pacific Decontamination Services remediates mold.

    These effects vary from mild to severe and often affect the sinuses and lungs. Common symptoms include: headache, sore throat, runny nose, skin rash, eye irritation and wheezing.

    People with mold allergies will have severe allergic reactions upon contact with mold spores. Airborne spores can be a significant threat.

    Mold exposure also increases sensitivity in those with asthma or an autoimmune disease.

    Passengers with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, could face infection as well.

    “Aspergillosis” and “chronic pulmonary aspergillosis” have been linked to mold. Aspergillosis causes coughing, wheezing and sinus inflammation.

    Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is a painful condition that causes cavities in the lungs. These cavities are called “fungus balls” and can lead to future scarring

    Toxic black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is the most dangerous species of mold that you can come into contact with. When inhaled or ingested, toxic black mold spores can cause serious health problems and even deadly diseases.

    Signs of exposure to black mold start with sneezing, coughing, headache, skin rash, mental confusion, memory loss and chronic fatigue. This can then lead to nausea, vomiting, anxiety, muscle cramps, hair loss, and bleeding in the lungs and nose. In severe cases, when a patient is left untreated, black mold exposure may lead to death.

    Here are a few tips on “what not to do” when it comes to dealing with mold in your car, RV or boat.

    Your family doctor will be able to diagnose mold exposure through a blood test or skin prick test.

    We neutralize mold in your car, RV or boat by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical into the interior and applicable exterior areas. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. We do not use a tent. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the premise for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of mold in your car and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

     

  • Is Your Home a Death Trap?

    Is Your Home a Death Trap?

    Is Your Home a Death Trap? How Mold Affects Your Health and Your Home’s Value in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Comox, Courtenay, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    If you think your home is mold-free, you’re probably wrong. Mold infestation is very common for home owners living in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    How do you sell your home on Vancouver Island when there’s mold? Any kind of major defect discovered during a home inspection can break a deal or have a big impact on negotiations when buying a home, and mold is no exception. Mold will simply continue to devalue your property until the problem becomes so rampant that the home is uninhabitable. Nobody wants to purchase a seller’s mold issues.

    Understanding Mold:

    As a fungus, the mold is in soil and spreads to new locations by releasing spores into the air. It can travel through an open window or follow you inside through the front door.

    Generally speaking, mold only becomes dangerous when it can attach itself to organic material and grow and spread with the right humid conditions.  Black mold is a good example. Moisture allows the mold that’s already there to grow and colonize, and reproduce and spread.  And we all know, moisture on Vancouver Island is like “wetness to water”.

    Airborne mold spores are not visible to the human eye. Mold spores are tiny structures produced by molds for reproduction purposes. They are so small that they can hardly be seen…even when magnified 400 times. One cubic meter of outdoor air may contain as many as 1,000,000 spores. The volume of air we inhale at rest is estimated at 10 litres per minute. Therefore, in an hour we inhale close to 600,000 spores. The air in some working environments including moldy buildings may contain up to 1,000,000,000 spores per cubic meter of air.

    People’s reactions to mold vary depending on individual predispositions to mold and the type of mold growth, from no symptoms to sore throat and itchy eyes, heightened asthma problems, skin rashes, sick building syndrome, and in some cases autoimmune disease from prolonged exposure. Because medical issues can vary so greatly, it doesn’t matter which type of mold may be growing or how you’re feeling, all visible mold growth in your home should be removed, and the source of moisture repaired to ensure growth does not occur again.

    Health concerns are the first reasons to rid a building of mold. The second reason is the resale value and marketability of a property. Nobody wants to purchase a seller’s mold issue.  This is where Pacific Decontamination Services has developed a service that kills the mold and mildew up to 99.99999% and leaves an invisible residual covering to protect the re-growth for up to 3 months.

    Finding the root cause of your mold and mildew problems is critical in the problem-solving process. What is causing the mold and mildew to grow? It could be a leaky pipe, humid basement or a heavy rain storm that flooded your crawl or basement. The size of the problem is less important than your ability to repair the source of moisture. The key is to stop further moisture intrusion. Otherwise, the mold will just grow back.

    Mold growth in a basement, attic or crawl space is relatively common, because residents don’t see these areas often, and they can be very humid. However, there are tell-tale signs you can see and smell in advance of your problem expanding. With mold and musty crawl spaces, basements and attics, there are several warning signs: Click Here for warning signs you can be watching for.

    It is important to note that mold and mildew are both fungi, and they can cause health problems. If it looks like mold or is described as a mold-like substance, considers it mold and have it removed. Do not differentiate between mold and mildew – they both are just as risky as the other.

    How Do We Kill Mold?

    We neutralize your mold and mildew by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical into your attic, crawlspace, residence, or basement. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. We do not use a tent. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the premise for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of mold and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

     

  • Musty Smell in Bathroom

    Musty Smell in Bathroom

    Musty smells in the bathroom, laundry room and basements are extremely common, and may impact one in three homeowners in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    The musty smell in your bathroom is caused by mold or mildew.

    These fungal growths cause the same musty odor in damp basements, crawl spaces and attics.

    Common locations for mold and mildew in the bathroom include inside the shower, on walls behind towels or picture frames, or on the ceiling.

    Mold and Mildew Explained

    Mold and mildew are both a type of fungus that grow in damp areas. If a room is moist, not very well ventilated, and lacking in natural sunlight, there is a good chance it can develop mold or mildew.

    Mold and mildew have a unique musty scent that is easy to identify.  You cannot always see mold and mildew. Both are dark-colored stains when you can see them. It is important to not that mold and mildew can start to smell before they become visible, and they can also grow inside drawers and closets. Other areas include behind picture frames, on the ceiling, inside the shower, behind decorative hanging towels, and under the sink or behind the toilet.

    The Musty Smell of Mold and Mildew is a Warning

    The musty odor of mold and mildew is a warning. Both these fungal growths are bad for your health if you breathe in the airborne spores. They can cause reactions like headaches, trouble breathing, nosebleeds, and nausea. Young children are particularly prone to breathing problems in homes where there is a lot of mold, and people with asthma can have severe reactions to mold and mildew.

    Mold and Mildew Can Damage Your House

    Mold and mildew can damage your house. Mildew stains grout, paint, and other surfaces.  Mold can eat into drywall and even damage the structural stability of the house frame if left alone long enough. Taking no action against your serious mold infestation could have consequences.  There are examples where some homes, when left with mold for years, had to be condemned due to the overwhelming growth.

    How to Prevent Mold or Mildew

    Airflow and moisture reduction are critical to prevent mold and mildew. If your bathroom does not have a window or fan, then consider putting a small fan or dehumidifier in the room to reduce some of the moisture. Always wipe down the walls and shower curtain after a shower to prevent mold from growing inside this damp area. Hang wet towels, rather than putting them in a hamper, and routinely move anything that hangs permanently to wipe the wall behind.

    Other Causes of Musty Smells

    Other causes of must smells could include your toilet tank. There can be mildew inside the tank, or it could be that lime deposits have left the inside of the tank less than pristine. Check for other areas like this around your bathroom, such as the under-sink plumbing fixtures, or behind a decorative covering on your tub.

    How to Get Rid of Mold or Mildew

    Pacific Decontamination Services can neutralize mildew and mold up to 99.99999% by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical into your home, air conditioner, shower, faucets, hot tub, spa, or any other item or location. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog.

    Click Here to View Types of Biological Organisms and Chemical Threats that Pacific Decontamination Kills and Neutralizes

    We do not use a tent. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the premise for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of mold, mildew and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

  • Why You Should Be Concerned About Thirdhand Cigarette and Tobacco Smoke

    Why You Should Be Concerned About Thirdhand Cigarette and Tobacco Smoke

    Thirdhand cigarette and tobacco smoke, residual nicotine and other chemicals can be dangerous to your health and can impact owners in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    Thirdhand smoke is residual nicotine and other chemicals left on indoor surfaces by tobacco smoke.

    People are exposed to these chemicals by touching contaminated surfaces or breathing in the off-gassing from these surfaces.

    This residue is thought to react with common indoor pollutants to create a toxic mix including possible cancer causing compounds, posing a potential health hazard to nonsmokers — especially children.

    Thirdhand smoke clings to clothes, furniture, drapes, walls, bedding, carpets, dust, vehicles and other surfaces long after smoking has stopped.

    The residue from thirdhand smoke builds up on surfaces over time. To remove the residue, hard surfaces, fabrics and upholstery need to be regularly cleaned or laundered, and decontaminated.

    Thirdhand smoke can’t be eliminated by airing out rooms, opening windows, using fans or air conditioners, or confining smoking to only certain areas of a home.  The surfaces must be also be decontaminated.

    Children and nonsmoking adults might be at risk of tobacco-related health problems when they inhale, swallow or touch substances containing thirdhand smoke. Infants and young children might have increased exposure to thirdhand smoke due to their tendency to mouth objects and touch affected surfaces.

    Thirdhand smoke is a relatively new concept, and researchers are still studying its possible dangers. In the meantime, the only way to protect nonsmokers from thirdhand smoke is to create a smoke-free environment, or call Pacific Decon to reduce the risk and decontaminate the hazardous areas.

    What Else Can You Do To Eliminate Thirdhand Cigarette and Tobacco Smoke?

    We decontaminate thirdhand smoke by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical into your RV, boat, auto, home, basement, attic, or building. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. We do not use a tent. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the premise for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!
    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

  • How To Eliminate Old House Smell:

    How To Eliminate Old House Smell:

    Homeowners in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni Home are particularly prone to old house smell, mold and mildew as a result of living on the west coast of British Columbia. Not every restoration company is thorough in their elimination, remediation, cleaning and decontamination techniques etc.

    Old house smell is that musty odor that creeps up and greets you the instant you set foot inside an older home. What is this mysterious stench, anyway? And most importantly: Is there a way to get rid of it?

    What causes that old home smell

    Three things that musty old houses have in common: little ventilation, high humidity, and darkness,

    How to remove old house smell:

    Dry the place out. Opening up the windows and airing the place out.

    Fix any leaks. If your house is humid and you’re sure you don’t have any leaks. Keep your air-conditioner or a dehumidifier running.

    Light, especially sunlight with its ultraviolet component, is a good disinfectant.

    Clean your furniture. Soft stuff absorbs ambient moisture, which can lead to mold growth.

    Deep-clean the guts of your house. Example: Furnaces and air ducts can have a tremendous amount of mold that can grow in them when they’re not being used.

    Declutter under every sink

    Wash your walls

    Neutralize all spores, bacteria and fungi utilizing the experts at Pacific Decontamination Services


    Additional areas that Pacific Decontamination Services treat to remove old house smells and odors.

    Water and pipes

    The most common source of that old house smell is mold and mildew. Over the years, water eventually gets into a house, no matter how well-built it might be. Pipes leak. Roofs get damaged. Water gets splashed onto floors. It creeps into the soil underneath the house. Overall, it combines to create a musty smell.

    Walls

    Another common reason is right in front of you: the walls themselves. Over time, the walls absorb the odors that they are subject to on a regular basis. If anyone ever smoked in the house, the walls might be holding that smoky odor. Does your kitchen smell like old cooking oil? That’s probably just what it is, right there in the walls.

    Floors

    The floors have seen their share of everything, from dust to water to spills of completely indeterminate origin. They might have also seen their share of pets. And where there are pets, sometimes there are odorous accidents. When the scent of pet urine gets into the floors, almost nothing works to get it out.

    The air itself

    Don’t forget that ductwork is subject to the same odors the walls experience. It never fails: Old ductwork is a grimy, dusty mess on the inside. In some cases, filters haven’t been changed often enough, and registers have never had a good scrubbing. The scent might also be coming from the heating units in the home.

    Ductwork and Furnace (HVAC).

    Rodents – Rats and Mice – Those unwelcome visitors

    One of the more unfortunate sources of old house smells is the death of a little critter or two. Old houses are notorious for small open areas that allow various wildlife and pests to roam as they please. They get up into the attic or enjoy the crawlspace for a while, and sometimes that’s where they die. When that happens, the unpleasant odors are quite evident.

    Mold – Don’t Forget the Dangers and Warning Signs of Mold

    How Can You Neutralize Mold In Your Crawl, Attic, Home or Vehicle?

    We neutralize your mold by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical into your attic, crawlspace, or basement. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. We do not use a tent. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the premise for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of mold and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

     

  • Mold Exposure – How Vulnerable Are You?

    Mold Exposure – How Vulnerable Are You?

    Mold exposure can be dangerous to your health and can impact residents in Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.

    Inhaling or touching mold or mildew may have hazardous health effects. But, not everyone may be adversely affected by molds. Those who have other allergies or existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, sinusitis, or other lung diseases are more susceptible to the effects of mold exposure.

    People with an impaired or weakened immune system will have severe reactions to molds. Pregnancy, autoimmune disease, AIDS, or diabetes are medical conditions that can weaken your immune system. Infants, small children, and elderly people are also vulnerable to mold contamination.

    The Effects 0f Breathing Mold Or Mildew

    Allergy Effects of Breathing Mold or Mildew

    Mold exposure may sometimes cause allergic reactions. You may have a runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing, or a sore throat. You may also suffer from a headache, fatigue, or have skin irritations such as red itchy skin or rash.

    Even other airborne allergens like pollen or dust mites may trigger these symptoms. It can be difficult to identify the specific cause behind the allergic reactions.

    Airborne mold spores can be dangerous to your health.

    Allergic Asthma Effects of Breathing Mold or Mildew

    Fungal allergen exposure through molds may cause asthma. Research has identified a relationship between severity of asthma and total dampness and mold growth.

    There are with mold. The role of home dampness and molds as the cause of respiratory symptoms have also been studied. In asthma patients, thus, molds may aggravate the disease. However, there is inadequate evidence to determine the association between fungal exposure and the development of asthma.

    Infections Effects of Breathing Mold Or Mildew

    Pacific Decontamination Services offer a safe alternative.  If you are immunocompromised, you may be a victim of fungal infections and other sicknesses. Pulmonary aspergillosis is an infection that happens in lung cavities.  And its symptoms are pneumonia, headache, bone pain, and weight loss.

    Another infection is Aspergilloma, and it can happen with symptoms such as cough and weight loss.  It is a growth that develops in an area of past lung disease or lung scarring such as tuberculosis.  Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) happens when the immune system overreacts to the fungus. It happens very rarely in people with a normal immune system. The condition may worsen underlying health conditions like asthma or cystic fibrosis. It may also result in weight loss.

    Toxin-Mediated Conditions

    Black mold is toxic. Mycotoxins are chemicals produced by molds. The ingestion, inhalation, or dermal contact of mycotoxins can be toxic under some circumstances.  At high doses, they may affect a variety of metabolic processes. There are serious side effects when breathing mold. But, there is no compelling evidence that exposure at levels expected in most mold-contaminated indoor environments is likely to result in measurable health effects.  Hence, more research is needed to explain the health implications of mycotoxin exposure in indoor environments.

    How Can You Neutralize Mold?

    We neutralize your mold by applying our eco-friendly, safe chemical into your home, attic, crawlspace, or basement. Depending on the job, we apply our formula by spray, mist, foam, or fog. We do not use a tent. The average time of our on-site service is approximately one hour. An additional four hours is required to achieve maximum effectiveness. We ask that you stay out of the premise for approximately 5 hours in total. Read more about how we work.

    Pacific Decontamination Services uses the world’s strongest, most effective and safe antimicrobial disinfectant, deodorization and chemical decontaminate. Our professional application will eliminate up to 99.99999% of any allergen, germ, bacteria or fungus that it touches. AND as powerful as it is, it is also completely safe.

    What do you do next? How do you solve the challenge of mold and associated health hazards?

    Call Pacific Decontamination Services at 778-269-0208 or email us!

    Serving All of Vancouver Island: Victoria, Cowichan, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, and Port Alberni.