14 Nov 4 Vital Ways To Properly Deal With Mold
Mold can cause serious health problems and even death. Mold growth is a common problem indoors. Unfortunately, some homeowners mistakenly believe it’s normal and even harmless.
Mold is not normal or harmless. Mold is a destructive and persistent problem that can damage a home. Here are some tips from experts to help you deal with mold: how to detect, remove and prevent it.
To find the root cause of mold problems, identify sources of excess moisture
Some of these are known moisture problems:
- leaky pipes
- Poorly sealed doors and windows
- Foundation cracks
- Roof damage
- Poor ventilation
- condensation.
Your basement, crawlspace, bathroom, crawlspace, and cold storage area are more susceptible to moisture problems. Also, ensure that furniture, walls, hardwood floors, carpets, and carpets are dry. This is important because mold thrives on organic matter which can be found in drywall, wood and paper, as well as fabrics.
You should look for visible signs of mold
These are the most popular:
- Moist, musty, or earthy odors
- Bubblegum paint or wallpaper
- Condensation on walls
- Floors that are not straight;
- water staining and wall discoloration
- Black spots on walls
Take a Mold Test if you suspect that you have a mold problem
Although you can buy a DIY mold test kit, professional testing is much more reliable and safer. An experienced mold remediation specialist will be able to assess the problem and offer their expertise.
A visual mold inspection can be helpful in the development of a mold remediation plan, but a mold test will confirm that mold is present. It also provides important information such as the type of mold and the amount of mold spores present in the air.
There are many types of mold, some of which can be deadly. A mold test will tell you if you have been exposed to harmful species like Alternaria, Stachybotrys (also called black mold).
Be aware of any changes in your health
Mold exposure can cause persistent or unusual symptoms without any apparent cause. These are the most common mold reactions:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Breathing difficulties and shortness of breathe
- Wheezing and coughing
- Headaches
- Nausea and dizziness
- Fatigue
- Asthma and allergies worsening
It is important to understand that mold can affect everyone differently. Some people may experience severe reactions and others may not feel the same. Your individual sensitivity to mold, the type of mold and how long you have been exposed will all affect your reaction to it.