The Health Dangers of Mold
In the wild, mold processes decaying plant and animal matter and enriches the surrounding soil, but it can bring its share of major health issues if it spreads in your home. Luckily, most kinds of mold is typically innocent, however sometimes a tiny splotch may later become a large problem. Mold reproduces using spores that are released into the air and causes illness if inhaled by those with mold allergies or respiratory issues. A few studies have also found a correlation between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. For most, garden variety mildew or mold is nontoxic and goes undetected. Unfortunately, it can have an impact on other people who are allergy prone or who have pulmonary issues. These allergies are seen in a lot of people and flair up on various occasions depending on the density of mold. If you are allergic to mold, you'll likely have cold-like symptoms like sneezing or a runny nose when mold is nearby. More serious allergies may result in harsh reactions like shortness of breath. Mold and mildew can also trigger asthma attacks as well. Other groups at risk include:- Babies and kids
- Seniors
- Those with a weak immune system
- Those with chronic pulmonary disease
Where is Mold Found?
Typically found in moist places, mold and mildew can grow bigger over time. A home can get a mold infestation through doors left ajar, open windows, vents and air conditioning and heating systems. Mold doesn't only enter your home through open doors and windows-- it can also attach onto your clothes, backpacks, pets and shoes and be brought indoors. Mold growth can affect your family's physical well-being, as well as your possessions and the structure itself. Mold usually grows in moist places, but it can be found in places you might not think to look. These include:- Paper products
- Ceiling tiles
- Cardboard
- Wood products
- Paints
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Upholstery
How Can I Stop Mold from Growing?
There are precautions you can take to in order to stop mold from infesting your home. We suggest you do the following:- Build in ventilation for showers, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Monitor the humidity levels in your home
- In the case of a flood, carefully clean and dry your home
- Patch up leaky roofs, windows or pipes as soon as possible
- Call your local mold damage restoration contractors for affordable mold removal
