Preventing Mold at Home

What is Mold?

Mold is a natural fungi found in the environment and is responsible for the breakdown of dead matter.

It appears in a range of colors including green, black, white, brown and orange.

Mold emits a musty smell and can have a fuzzy or slimy texture.

Causes

Mold use spores to reproduce. On moist surfaces indoors, these spores have a better opportunity for growth.

Mold needs moisture and a food source to survive. Popular food sources at home can include cloth, wood and insulation.

However, anything can become a potent food source if water is present (ex: mold growth occurs within two days in the region surrounding a broken water pipe).

Health Consequences

Mold produce and release toxins and can be hazardous to your health. Mold spores are minuscule and airborne and can get into your lungs. Another mode of contact is via skin.

Allergy symptoms is a common effect of mold exposure. Symptoms include: stuffy nose, eye and throat irritation, sneezing, coughing and wheezing.

Mold Removal

A wet vacuum or steam cleaner can be used to rid mold from upholstered furniture or rugs.

To eliminate mold from larger areas, a professional cleaning service is required.

Mold removal from small areas and surfaces like tile, wood and hard plastic can be completed by the homeowner (but individuals sensitive to mold should not clean mold).

Plastic gloves, a filter mask and goggles are essential when cleaning mold. Warm water and detergent can be used.

Mold Prevention Tips

1) Maintain humidity levels in your home below 60%.-30-50% is ideal.

2) Remove sources of moisture.-Fix leaky pipes.-Wipe down wet surfaces.-Dry or get rid of anything that is damaged by water within 2 days.

Mold removal can be costly and messy, so it is best to take preventative measures. The following are some steps you can take for mold growth prevention in your home:

Mold Prevention Tips

3) Ensure exhaust fans are functioning properly while cooking and showering.

4) Keep the attic, crawl space and basement adequately ventilated.

Mold Prevention Tips

5) Use mold-resistant products when renovating (ex: mold-resistant drywall).

6) Promote air flow in your home. Open doors, windows and closets; fresh air decreases moisture and prevents mold.

Conclusion

Mold is a common yet preventable household problem. Removing moisture from surfaces in your home and proper ventilation is essential for keeping mold away. Eliminating mold from your home is important in ensuring optimal health for you and your family.

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