Is Living in a House with Mold Dangerous?
In the wild, mold processes decaying plant and animal matter and enriches the surrounding soil, but it can bring its share of major health trouble if it spreads in your house. Thankfully, most types of mold are typically innocent, but sometimes a little splotch may later turn into a big problem. When mold procreates, it releases spores into the air which can cause sickness if inhaled by anyone with allergies or breathing issues. According to a few studies, there is a correlation between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. For many people, garden variety mold is harmless and goes undetected. However, it can affect other people who are allergy prone and who have asthma. Typically, the concentration of mold and degree of someone's allergies will effect their response. Sneezing, coughing, runny nose, red eyes, wheezing, headaches and other cold-like reactions are most often experienced with mold and mildew allergies, making it difficult to target the problem correctly. The most severe reactions include short breath. Mold and mildew can also trigger asthma attacks too. Additional groups at risk include:- Infants and children
- The elderly
- Immune sensitive individuals
- Anyone with chronic pulmonary disease
Mold in the House
Commonly found in damp areas, mold and mildew can build up over time. Your home can get a mold infestation through open doors, open windows, vents and HVAC systems. Mold doesn't only invade your home through open windows and doors-- it can also attach onto your clothes, knapsacks, animals and shoes and be moved your home. When the amount of mold in your home exceeds normal levels, it can have a huge impact on the physical well-being of your family, your possessions and the structure itself. Mold growth typically occurs in moist places, but it can be found in places you may not think to look. These include:- Paper products
- Ceiling tiles
- Cardboard
- Wood products
- Paints
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Upholstery
Mold Prevention
When it comes to stopping mold from getting into your home, there are precautions you can take. Here's some easy steps you can take:- Install ventilation in bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Monitor the humidity levels in your home
- In the case of a flood, clean and dry your home carefully
- Fix leaky roofs, windows and pipes right away
- Call Paul Davis mold damage repair contractors for affordable mold damage restoration
