Mold Assessment Consulting
What is Mold?
Mold is a fungus, and like all fungi, it thrives in moist places. Mold spreads by releasing spores that float around in the air until they attach themselves to a surface. Mold also spreads by releasing microscopic particles that many times can be as small as a single cell. Mold spores are found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. It is nearly impossible to remove all mold spores from a house, unless you have a large industrial clean filtration system is installed.
Fortunately, mold appears only when mold spores fall on a moist surface. Mold problems can be avoided if you can keep the inside dry. Cleaning up spills, repairing leaks in roofs, plumbing and HVAC systems is the best way to prevent mold in your home or business. Also, ensure that your kitchen and bathroom are venting moisture out of the house correctly.
Ten Things You Should Know About Mold
1. The symptoms associated with mold exposures include: allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
2. The best way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in an apartment, clean up the mold and eliminate the sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside, using air conditioners and dehumidifiers, increasing ventilation, and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dish washing, and cleaning.
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles and sheet rock, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation, ventilation, or by other means.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting by tubs, showers, sinks, or on concrete floors, or areas with frequent condensation.
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere. They can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
Mold cleanup should be done by professionals. If you see mold present contact our team of experts at R & A Consultants, Corp.