The term ‘mold’ covers multiple types of fungi growing on surfaces throughout your home:
- it may be brown, black or green
- it may form in a visible spot inside or outside your property
- it may go unnoticed for some time or you could identify it right away
- its stench may be overpowering, making it hard to spend time in any room affected
But whatever it looks like, wherever it forms, you have to remove mold as soon as possible to avoid problems. It’s more than just a bad smell: mold can actually lead to more dire side-effects.
Why is Mold Dangerous?
Mold forms in moist, warm places around the home. Basements. Crawl spaces. Drywalls. Even bathrooms and kitchens.
Rooms which have been flooded or have an ongoing leak can become a hotspot for mold growth. Something as simple as a faulty pipe or an appliance in need of service can all contribute.
Mold procreates by releasing spores into the air. These may be ingested without harm, though if you have a mold allergy, you could develop the following symptoms:
- runny nose
- irritated throat
- cough
- wheezing
- irritated eyes
The problem may not go beyond these mild effects. But if you have asthma, ingesting spores through respiration can make your condition worse. You may have more attacks, and they could be stronger than usual.
Who else is affected by mold?
- infants
- toddlers
- the elderly
- people with compromised immune systems (due to HIV, cancer etc.)
- those affected by lung conditions
When mold becomes toxic, you may notice nausea, fatigue, trouble breathing or headaches. Black mold is widely considered the most dangerous type of mold. Prolonged exposure may continue to make the above symptoms more pronounced, especially if certain members of your household have existing health conditions.
How can you Combat Mold Growth in your Home?
The easiest way to avoid any of the health problems covered above is to remove mold at the earliest opportunity, or just prevent it as best you can.
- Install effective ventilation in areas of the home creating moist air, such as the bathroom, kitchen and laundry room; this prevents the damp conditions mold thrives in
- Control humidity carefully: invest in dehumidifiers and air-conditioning to create a comfortable balance
- Attend to any leaking pipes, missing shingles on your roof or faulty appliances to minimize the risk of moisture collecting
- Undertake comprehensive cleaning after a flood
This latter point is crucial. You must make sure all water brought into the home through a flood is removed quickly and all surfaces affected are cleaned to stop mold forming.
Hiring a professional mold removal company is the most effective way to get rid of mold before it can develop into a danger to your health. Never just leave it in the hope that it will vanish naturally.