Overview: Does your house need a mold removal expert? It's a substance that many consider to be limited to abandoned foods but the truth is mold can grow on many common places in family homes and is harmful to people. Read the blog below to get the low down on mold in the home.
The Rise of Mold
Mold, also known as fungus, thrives in environments that are warm and damp. Mold actually consists of microscopic organisms that break down organic material. In addition to ideal conditions, mold needs a food source to grow can be provided by any organic material like wood, paper and dirt. The average family home offers many hot spots for mold to begin its residency:
- Window sills
- Fabrics
- Carpets
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms (tubs, under the sink)
- Laundry areas
- Basement
So what if there is a little mold in your house? It can’t be that harmful, right?
Wrong. Even an area of 1 square meter that has mold growth can have harmful affects on people and structures. Mold releases spores into the air that when breathed in can have negative health affects, especially for younger and older people. Mold can cause:
- Irritation of the eyes, nose & throat.
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Asthma like symptoms.
- Irritations to the skin
The Plan
Before getting a dehumidifier and converting your home into a dry sauna here are a few tips for basic mold removal and prevention.
You don’t need to don a full HAZMAT suit but make sure you take safety measures when cleaning up mold.
- Wear a breathing mask so you don’t inhale dangerous spores.
- Wear safety goggles/glasses, rubber gloves and full-sleeved shirts.
While there are lots of mold removing products on the market, you can use plain old water and detergent too.
- Clean the surface of the mold site with a rag.
- Then sponge with a clean damp towel and quickly dry the area.
Just lowering moisture levels and cleaning up mold in a small area will reduce the spores released, but if not fully removed, the mold will lay low and once again grow quickly.
What if the mold in your home is out of control?
Because mold can grow in hidden places (behind walls, under carpets etc.) and can quickly engulf large areas, homeowners need to call in the professionals. Whatever surface mold grows on, it ultimately weakens and destroys it. Areas larger than 1 square meter is a sign that mold is about to wreak major havoc on a home and it will take experts like 24/7 Restoration to solve.
For more information on mold removal in Calgary or if you believe mold is on the verge of taking over your home, contact 24/7 Restoration today at (403) 247-4365.
