Mold: The Dangers Of and Ways to Protect Against
Mold can make it's way in to your home. A loaf of bread that has been on the counter for a day too long, the banana's that got just a little too ripe, even the shower curtain that wasn't pulled back after a long day. These can be concerning, if you interact with them directly, over long periods of time. However, other types of mold can cause your air quality to deteriorate to the point where your quality of life will suffer.
The Science in Mold
Alternaria (iron, tiles, bricks, wallpaper), Penicillium (rotten food), Cladosporium (wood, carpet, HVAC, dust) can damage your health, but are not an immediate threat. The molds that are mentioned, can reduce the quality of the air that circulates in your home and can cause respiratory issues if you are exposed to them for extended periods of time. Black Mold (stachybotrys chartarum) is especially dangerous. Black mold breeds in moist environments, like basements and crawlspaces. Your home's structural integrity can be compromised and it can cause severe health issues, especially with people who are immuno-compromised.
Preventing Mold In Your Home
Preventing mold in your home doesn't have to be costly. Staying up to date with maintenance, and using these preventative measure will assist in costly repairs in the future.
- Have HVAC Systems routinely maintenanced
- Clean bathrooms and kitchens often
- Don't overwater indoor plants
- Run a fan to create air circulation
- Don't carpet bathrooms or unfinished basements.
- Move sprinklers away from the home
- Clean gutters and direct flow away from walls
- Dry wet areas and furnishings
- Run an air conditioner or dehumidifier
- Cover cold pipes with insulation
- Clean vents and replace air filters
- Don't paint or caulk over mold - remove it
- Don't let leaks go untreated
- Invest in waterproofing measures for your home
Removing Mold
Removing mold like Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Alternaria can be done DIY style. You can touch their clusters with gloves and remove the area where they have rooted. You will need to scrub the area well and make sure you have used the proper cleaning materials to keep the cluster from regrowing. If you are attempting to remove Black Mold, you may want to contact a professional in your area, especially if it has spread beyond a singular cluster. If you choose to remove this type of mold, you will need personal protective equipment as well as a respirator.
The Bigger Picture
Mold is unfortunately a symptom of a larger problem. You could have an issue with your foundation, basement or crawlspace. After you have removed the mold from the area, you will want to inspect the source of the mold for why there is an increase in moisture to the area.
You don't have to do this alone! Liberty Basement Systems offers free inspections & estimates! The professionals here at Liberty will provide a thorough inspection of the inside and outside of your property, finding the root of the problem and offering you a permanent solution for your home. Not only will we bring you peace of mind, but a healthier and happier home. Call today! 1-570-998-4540