Mold is a very common problem in all households at some point in time or the other, though most people may not be aware of it. A mold is a fungus that is very much a part of the environment and plays a major part in the outdoor environment by breaking down dead organic matter. However,
mold growth indoors is a problem that can and should be avoided, for health and hygiene reasons.
Basic features of mold
Molds reproduce by releasing tiny spores, which are invisible to the naked eye, but are present in the atmosphere and survive by floating around
in the air. Mold may begin to grow if a spore lands on a wet surface and any excessively damp spot can be a typical infestation area promoting mold growth. Mold spores can reproduce and cause health problems if not checked in time and prove toxic too as certain molds produce irritants,
allergens and in some cases, a potentially toxic substance or mycotoxins. To touch or breathe in mold spores can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and their reactions can be immediate or delayed. Those prone to asthma can suffer severely and mold exposure can irritate the
skin, nose, eyes, throat and lungs of both allergic and non-allergic people.
Controlling mold growth
Indoor mold growth needs to be controlled by determining the moisture indoors. If there is mold growth inside the home, it requires immediate remedial measures.
The water source needs to be located and fixed as soon as possible. If the mold is cleaned up and not the water problem, then the mold problem is likely to come back. Depending on the size of the mold problem, the homeowner can decide if it can be a do it yourself project or calls for
professional handling. For areas less than 10 square feet, following simple guidelines for dealing with mold growth covers is sufficient.
Guidelines for mold management
The US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guide recommends certain steps for homeowners that can
raise the air quality of their homes. As mold can cause excessive structural damage, health problems and sanitation issues, if not checked in time, it needs to be addressed on least suspicion. If the heating/ventilation/air conditioning system is contaminated with mold, the air ducts in
the home may require cleaned. It is suggested that such a system not be run if contaminated with mold as it could spread throughout the building. If the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then a certified mold cleaning professional is the best bet.
Mold Professionals
Mold belongs to a group of microscopic fungi and is spore-producing organisms that can thrive in certain indoor conditions such as when there is a temperature range conducive to growth, sufficient humidity, and a source of nutrients to sustain...
Mold Inspections
The presence of mold in a home can be very dangerous. It leads to respiratory problems and other health issues of the inhabitants, in addition to compromising the integrity of the home's walls and foundation. Testing is not costly, and may help...
Clean mold
If a homeowner takes up the task of cleaning any mold, the foremost thing to keep in mind is that basic personal protection equipment such as rubber gloves, eye protection and high-quality pollen or dusk mask be worn.
Locating mold to be...
Mold damage
Molds in any home can cause mild to severe hygiene, sanitation and health problems, apart from also being the primary cause for structural damage. This is because mold can reproduce fast as the mold spores spread in the air and moisture present in...
Detect Mold
Moulds thrive on many organic substances and, provided with sufficient moisture, they rapidly break down wood, paper, and leather. In fruit the enzymes penetrate well behind the area of the visible growths to damage the plant. Besides being...
|
|
