Don't let mold into your home!

Read an interesting article (yes, I find this stuff interesting) on mold today and how it is most prolific in warm, damp weather and the high indoor moisture levels can and poor ventilation can also cause mold growth. Basements and storage areas and two areas that tend to have the most mold growth.  Beware of mold! It is nasty and I have heard cases where it has gotten into people's lungs and as a result they have a hard time breathing, sometimes gain asthma and become really sick. No beuno! If you think you have mold, you can get it tested to find out what type of mold you are dealing with. The pic to the right is black mold and this is the nastiest of the bunch!

 Below are some quick tips regarding mold. 

Quick Tips:

• Avoid resting long-term storage directly against walls.
• Place storage boxes on pallets.
• Keep basement windows slightly open during mild, dry weather.
• Maintain air circulation in all areas, particularly basements and storage areas.
• Filter fresh air changes to help keep spores from building up. 

For additional information on mold and other home issues go to housemaster.com

Berkeley Offering Cash Incentives to Increase Energy Efficiency

The City of Berkeley will be offering cash incentives to increase the energy efficiency

of your home, apartment building or business.

Funding is available for all types of buildings and income levels, helping you save money, improve building comfort, safety and durability as well as reduce your carbon footprint. Rebates, provided by the U.S. Department of Energy, will be available starting July 6, 2010 and will cover:

• Up to $8,500 for single-family and duplex homes (including rebates through PG&E)
• Up to $30,000 for commercial and multi-family properties

Presentations will be available on the city website at http://www.cityofberkeley.info/me2/  or call 510-981-7438. You can also subscribe to receive email updates as more information becomes available.