Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposure include allergic reactions, asthma and respiratory issues.
- Having these health problems does not insure that you have mold in your home, but if you suspect that is the problem we suggest having air samples taken.
There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment.
- Mold is in the air everywhere. What matters is the amount of mold spores in your home. Air samples, one taken outside as a control and at least one taken inside, will tell you what mold may be in your home and if it is a cause for concern.
If mold is a problem in your home, you must clean up the mold and eliminate the source of the moisture.
- Regular household bleach will not kill the mold. There are much stronger products that need to be used to properly treat the mold. It’s important to not only get the mold off the surface, but also to kill any spores that might escape into the air.
Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Many mold issues in basements are caused from high humidity. If you think this may be your issue, we recommend running a dehumidifier. Optimal indoor humidity is between 30-60%.
- Many mold issues in attics are caused from lack of proper ventilation. Insufficient insulation is another common problem. Both of these problems can be corrected by a professional.
Clean and dry any building materials within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Things happen, messes are made, but when they are, be sure to take care of them right away to prevent bigger issues later.
Prevent condensation on cold surfaces by adding insulation.
- This includes cold water pipes as well as attic spaces.
Watch what flooring you put in areas that have moisture problems.
- If you know your basement has a moisture problem carpet is probably not the best option. Areas of your home that tend to get wet often, like bathrooms and kitchens, would not be an ideal place for carpet either.
If you need help with mold in your home, or if you have any of the risk factors mentioned above, give us a call for a free consultation. You don’t need to face mold alone.
Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency