Toxic Mold: Causes, Prevention, Removal
One of the most common problems in any house is mold. This fungus has the ability to grow on anything which contains moisture, primarily damp, warm, poorly lit, and less ventilated places. Mold is composed of thread-like filament known as hyphae. It looks like a grassy lawn, however, not as soothing and welcoming.
Molds in homes can cause various issues. They leave repulsive scent or unattractive stains on rugs, dividers, or roofs, and reduce indoor air quality. Molds also add to various medical issues, some quite serious. The impact of molds on wellbeing could be enormous, if not addressed immediately.
According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), several Americans live with risky poisons in their homes. That is, many individuals are taking a chance with their wellbeing because of mold or different poisons. What adds to the problem is the expulsion of mold which can be troublesome and exorbitant.
Causes of Mold
In spite of the fact that molds develop on specific surfaces like paper, fabric, wood, etc., in reality, they can grow on almost anything with favorable conditions. These conditions are: moisture, food, correct temperature, and spores. In houses, any place which is damp or contains moisture would invite this fungus. Temperature inside the house is ideal; and molds use spores to grow. Some of the causes which lead to mold growth are:
- Moisture and Humidity
This is the main cause of mold growth. The source of moisture could be leakage, condensation, washing, or cooking. Reduce moisture in the house to prevent mold growth.
Water leaks from pipes and damp places in the house, especially the walls. Similarly, a leakage in the roof could also give way to mold growth. Condensation is created due to cold surfaces in the house. It can be anywhere – pipes, floors. Leaving clothes wet for a long time can invite mold growth. It may also interest you to know, dryers used to dry clothes release a large amount of moisture into the house, hence, should be vented outside. Adding to these points, clothes drying inside the house, probably in racks, also build up the moisture level, unless the room is very well ventilated.
Rainy days can also help molds germinate due to wet climate. Molds can be a recurring problem for places which have high humidity in the air. Moreover, when moisture inside the house evaporates into the air, it increases the humidity indoor. Therefore, houses should be well ventilated.
- Poor Ventilation
If the ventilation is not good, moisture inside the house can increase giving way to molds. Places with lot of steam like the kitchen and bathrooms should have good ventilation. This will allow the steam and water in the air to evaporate faster, leaving the air dry. Windows circulate the steam and wet air out of the house keeping the moisture level balanced.
In other words, poor ventilation accords to increased humidity levels, leading to condensation which allows molds to germinate.
Prevention of Molds - Necessary
Inhaling or touching mold spores can cause allergic reactions. Molds in the house can make you feel sick. It is not harmful to every individual, but mostly people are affected. Here are some basic physical symptoms related to mold exposure or reaction:
- Eye, nose, or/and throat irritation
- Respiratory diseases or different issues including coughing up blood
- Influenza-like symptoms
- Cerebral pain
- Liver damage
- Debilitated invulnerable system function
These manifestations have been seen in people who get exposed to mold. There are other side effects as well. Reports of animals exposed to mold in labs demonstrate side effects those recorded above, yet additionally may show:
- Kidney Damage
- Reproductive cycle disturbance
Every individual's response to mold generally relies upon his present condition of wellbeing. The individuals who as of now have traded off wellbeing, for example, HIV/AIDS or have a respiratory issue, for example, asthma, might be more vulnerable to medical issues post exposure to mold.
On the off chance that you or somebody in your family has been enduring with these indications, it may be time to consider mold as a factor.
At times, it's hard to know 100% if a mold is causing you issues. The mold can hide behind wallboards, under rugs, and stow away in the most clueless of spots.
Keep the following points in mind if you wish to prevent molds in the house:
- Use dehumidifies and air conditioners, especially in hot, humid climates. This would reduce moisture in the air.
- Make sure the drain lines of the air conditioners are free from blockage. The drip pans should be clean.
- If possible, keep a check on the humidity level. Ideally, it should be below 60%.
- The house should be warm during cold weathers. As the temperature goes down, the air is less able to hold moisture and it condenses on cold surfaces. This can give birth to molds.
- Cold surfaces, such as exterior walls, floors, and windows need insulation. This reduces condensation which is a favorable condition for mold growth.
- Leakage should be taken care of immediately.
- Get the heating and cooling systems checked periodically. If the airflow is inappropriate, air conditioner will not remove humidity as it should be doing.
- Doors between rooms should be open for increased circulation.
- To move the moisture out use exhaust fans.
- Any place where water can accumulate, should be kept clean and dry.
- Check the basement floors for leakage, and repair immediately if required.
- The drainage system should work appropriately.
- Avoid leaving damp clothes in the laundry basket or dryer.
- If possible, avoid drying clothes inside the house on racks.
- Ventilation in the house should be good.
Removal of Molds From the House
The most successful method to effectively get of molds from a house is - Testing and Remediation. There are no government or state laws managing or coordinating the best possible cleanup of mold or even how much exposure is protected. However, a couple of states have, as of late, tended to the issue by making data about mold perils, indications, and appropriate tidy up accessible to people in general with the help of leaflets and sites.
General Guidelines for Cleaning Up Mold in the Home:
- Make sure to absolutely clean up and dry water from any openings or surges within 24 – 48 hours.
- Clean mold off surfaces with a natural tea tree oil-containing cleanser and water. Apple cider vinegar is likewise great to kill mold.
- Discard anything that is porous or ones that you can't thoroughly remove the mold from.
- Try not to paint or caulk over mildew covered surfaces.
- Contact a specialist mold removal organization if necessary.
What to Wear When Cleaning Up Mold:
- You would prefer not to take in mold, so it's fundamental that you wear a N-95 respirator accessible on the web or at some hardware shops.
- Wear gloves to cover all uncovered skin on hands and arms
- Wear glares to protect your eyes.
Molds can be harmful, but are preventable. Take immediate measures if they already have made a way into the house.