Nobody wants to see their home getting infested by mold, but when this fungus, which thrives in high humidity and abundant moisture, has made its way inside, it’s already a sign that you have a larger underlying problem. This should be immediately looked into before your molds create more serious problems for you and your family.
Ideally, you should seek the assistance of a professional mold mitigation expert if you’re interested in putting a stop to the infestation. This is not something that you should do alone, although you can try, but if you don’t have the skills and the equipment, it’s better if you just let the experts take over and handle the problem. When these professionals come in, normally, they will focus on eliminating mold spores.
What Are Mold Spores?
Mold is a fungus that can be found in the air. Its spores are virtually invisible until they find the right location where they can grow and multiply. For this to happen, mold spores require food and a moist environment with warm temperatures. Walls, fabric, and fibers are all potential food sources for them. If they find these in abundance, then in due time, your entire household will find itself at risk because the spores have spread, becoming fully-grown molds that have quietly settled in a little dark corner of your home.
A common adverse reaction to the presence of molds are asthma attacks and allergies. This usually happens when there is prolonged exposure to moldy materials in high quantities.
Other negative effects of mold allergy could include:
- Itchy or watery eyes, nose, and throat
- Eye redness
- Coughing
- Skin rashes
What Do Mold Spores Look Like?
Mold spores are usually invisible to the naked eye. Their particles act as seeds that play a key role in the propagation of the fungus. When the spores find the right surface for their growth, they gradually become visible, viscous, and covered with fuzz that come in different colors. As the surfaces are now officially mold-infested, they will begin to rot and decay much faster than they normally would.
What Elements Are Responsible for Mold Growth?
Deep Water Emergency Services and Restoration said that mold requires six elements in order to grow. They cannot thrive and flourish if any of these elements are missing or turn out to be insufficient. The elements include the following:
- Mold spores
- Oxygen
- Moisture
- Sustenance
- Optimal temperature
- Darkness
What Are the Possible Moisture Sources in the Home?
Moisture can occur in any home area, including the bathroom, attic, and basement. These areas are rich in potential food sources for molds. Other moisture sources are:
- Broken or leaky pipes
- Rain or floodwater
- Condensation
- Deficient drainage system
- Insufficient air circulation
- Heater overflow
- Broken toilet
- Damaged home foundation
- Puddles
- Damp corners
- Sprinklers
What Are the Signs of Mold Presence?
If you keep your senses sharp, it should be easy for you to determine the presence of mold in the home. Look out for the following signs:
Mold spores can be detected by a musty smell or a distinct odor resembling or similar to stagnant water.
Moisture exists up above if you notice stains in your ceiling, attic, or between the floorboards. Often, it won’t take long for the discoloration to turn into a mold colony if it hasn’t already.
Mold can quickly spread to your walls or paneling and cause it to separate from its core. This will cause further decay.
How To Get Rid Of Airborne Mold Spores
Mold growth is a sign that there are spores all around the home and they could even be airborne. A purifier is an effective solution to this problem and there are hundreds of these currently available on the market.
What Can an Air Purifier Do?
If mold has yet to make its way to your home, you can use an air purifier as a filter and freshen the air. On the other hand, if you find that there is already mold growth, you should address it immediately by getting the services of a company that specializes in mold mitigation and removal.
Key Takeaway
Mold infestation of the home is a serious problem, especially if you have allergies or asthma. However, there are signs that will tell you of an impending disaster, and if you can identify these early, they can help you prevent mold spores from growing and multiplying.
Meanwhile, if mold spores become airborne, a possible solution is to use an air purifier, although this might only work to prevent any mold growth. For those that have quietly settled inside the house, the best way to get rid of them is by seeking the help of professional companies as they are among the most knowledgeable when it comes to mold mitigation and removal.
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