Mold Leads to School Closure, Roof Replacement

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By Ryan Berlin November 1, 2018 – Roofing ✉ Email The Editor

A Man removing Mold fungus with respirator mask

Maintenance and engineering managers who conduct multiple roof inspections a year can help ensure the effective performance and lifespan of roofs on commercial and institutional facilities. But when inspections do not occur regularly, potential issues go unnoticed and can become larger problems.

Take the case of K-8 Paideia School 15 in Yonkers, N.Y., where school officials to close the building to hundreds of students. Air tests of a possible mold outbreak came back clear on Oct. 4, but it remains unclear when it will reopen.

There was an emergency closing of the on Sept. 24, when ceiling tiles tested positive for mold. Construction crews are performing a full roof replacement, interior restoration and equipment upgrades. During the construction, the district will perform additional cleaning efforts inside the areas impacted by mold, according to The New Rochelle Daily Voice.

An expert says the wet summer and bountiful rain led to moisture in the building that encouraged the growth of the mold, which became pervasive. The building serves about 576 students and 84 faculty and administrative staff members.

“We have been working very closely with the district to ensure that the safety and well-being of our students remain paramount,” says Mayor Mike Spano, the mayor of Yonkers. “Relocating the students while Paideia School 15 is being remediated is in the best interest of our students and staff.”

Air sample testing found that all areas of the building have been cleared for reoccupancy, says Edwin Quezada. schools superintendent.

This Quick Read was submitted by Ryan Berlin, managing editor of Facility Maintenance Decisions.