Talk Mold

When there is moisture within a home, there is potential for mold growth. If your home has experienced water damage, whether from a natural disaster or a pipe leak, your structure has become vulnerable. Mold thrives in damp environments and can use wood, carpet, wallpaper, dust and more as nutrients to continue to grow. Your home is a fertile ground for mold to develop. Even if you think you have completely dried out any standing water or dampness, if there is moisture trapped within the walls or flooring, then your home is at risk. Not only can mold cause structural damage, but it can also cause serious health ailments. The health risks of mold in the home are great and if the mold is hidden, it is good to be aware of the different ailments in order to diagnose the cause.

One can be exposed to mold in several ways, such as through skin contact, inhalation and ingestion. When mold is ingested it can lead to disease, such as cancer. Inhaled mold can colonize in the lungs of people who have compromised immune systems. Rashes can develop from mold coming into contact with skin. These are severe cases however they are not uncommon. Mold allergies are more common though and are often a good indicator that there is mold within the home. Allergies can present themselves as sneezing, congested nose, itchy eyes, ears and throat, chronic cough and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, mold allergies can develop into more severe problems such as Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) and asthma.

Even if your home has not experienced a water related disaster, it is still possible for mold to grow over time from continual moisture exposure. Certain areas of your home are more vulnerable to moisture collection so it is important to keep an eye on these areas. They include closets, carpets, trash cans, cabinets underneath sinks, air conditioner units, washing machines, foam pillows and the basement. The bathroom can also be very susceptible to mold growth, even just from splashed water from the shower collecting over time. Properly ventilating your bathroom is one way to help prevent mold growth. Other ways to prevent mold growth is to never store damp clothes in dressers or closets, use a dehumidifier to keep humidity low, use paint with a mold inhibitor, use mold killing cleaning products in the bathroom and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to reduce moisture. If you’re ever unsure how to remove mold or if your home has experienced water damage and is in danger of mold damage, contact a professional water damage restoration and mold remediation service to keep your home in healthy condition.