MOLD! Series
Hey Scopers! We are starting a 4 part series on MOLD today. I know, I know, not the most pleasant of subjects but it’s info that everyone needs to know!! If at any point you have questions please free to email us and we can help you out. Or if you want to schedule a home inspection with us or thermal imaging scan of your house/business we would be happy to help!
MOLD PART ONE (please contain your excitement!)
Mold Basics
• The key to mold control is moisture control.
• If mold is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem.
• It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Why is mold growing in my home?
Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter (such as fallen leaves and dead trees). But indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.
Mold and health?
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants and, in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash – dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common and they can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold. Research on mold and health effects is ongoing. This blog provides a brief overview; it does not describe all potential health effects related to mold exposure. (For more detailed information, consult a health professional. You may also wish to consult your state or local health department.)
If you made it all the way to the end, congrats!! Now get excited for Mold Part 2 coming soon!
*MOLD Blog courtesy of www.internachi.com*
