Are you still putting buckets under a roof leak, which occurred several years ago? Are you concerned that the resulting dampness in your home has produced continually growing mold? Are you particularly worried that these problems are threatening the health of your family?
As you have suspected, mold can put the well-being of your loved ones at risk. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), “After contact with certain molds, individuals with chronic respiratory disease may have difficulty breathing, and people who are immuno-compromised may be at increased risk for lung infection. A study conducted by NIEHS-funded scientists shows that mold exposure during the first year of life may increase the risk of childhood asthma.”
Exposure to mold may result in the following symptoms:
- Nasal and sinus congestion
- Eye irritation
- Blurred vision
- Sore throat
- Chronic cough
- Skin rash
Mold Growth and Spore Release
Are you wondering how mold grows and spreads? The NIEHS explains: “Molds are microscopic organisms that play an important role in the breakdown of plant and animal matter. Outdoors, molds can be found in shady, damp areas, or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoor molds can grow on virtually any surface, as long as moisture, oxygen, and organic material are present. When molds are disturbed, they release tiny cells called spores into the surrounding air.”
In addition, the National Toxicology Program indicates that some estimate the existence of approximately 1.5 million species of mold. Frequently described as mildew, both refer to fungal growth. Light-colored mildew is generally powdery, whereas more colorful mold is often fuzzy.
Important Points About Mold
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has also provided a list of “Ten Things You Should Know About Mold.” These important points follow:
- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
- If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity (to 30%-60%) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dish washing, and cleaning.
- Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
- Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
Information About Best Mold Remediation in Bentonville, AR
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