The Health Dangers of Mold
In nature, mold and fungus processes dead material and enriches the soil around it, but it can cause serious health problems if you let it to grow in your home. Thankfully, most kinds of mold are generally innocent, however sometimes a small splotch can spread throughout your home. When mold reproduces, it frees spores into the air which can cause illness if inhaled by anyone with mold sensitivities or asthma. A few studies have also found a link between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. For most, common mildew or mold isn't irritating or even noticeable. Unfortunately, it can affect other people who are allergy prone or who have breathing conditions. In most cases, the concentration of mold and severity of a person's allergies has the most effect on their reaction. If you have a mold allergy, you'll probably sneeze, have a runny nose, cough, red eyes, wheeze, skin irritations or a headache when you're around mold. More serious allergies may result in harsh reactions like difficulty breathing. Mold and mildew can be especially triggering for asthma attacks as well. Other sensitive groups at risk include:- Babies and toddlers
- Seniors
- Immune sensitive individuals
- Those with chronic pulmonary disease
Where Can you Find Mold?
Commonly found in moist areas, mildew and mold can grow bigger over time. A home can get a mold infestation through doors left open, windows, vents and HVAC systems. Mold doesn't only enter your home through doors and windows-- it can fasten onto your clothes, bags, animals and shoes and be brought your home. Mold growth doesn't only affect your family's health-- it can affect your possessions and the building itself. Mold can grow in moist places, but it can be found in places you may not expect. These include:- Paper products
- Ceiling tiles
- Cardboard
- Wood products
- Paints
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Upholstery
Mold Prevention
There are preventative steps you can take to in order to stop mold from infesting your home. Here's some easy steps you can take:- Build in ventilation in showers, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Control the humidity levels in your home
- In the case of flooding, carefully clean and dry your home
- Mend leaky roofs, windows or pipes as soon as possible
- Talk to Paul Davis mold damage restoration contractors for affordable mold removal
