The Problems with Mold and How to Avoid Them

5/10/2023 (Permalink)

Mold in the corner of the room

No one likes to see mold in their homes, but mold spores are everywhere and unavoidable. Often problems begin before they even become visible. These microorganisms can take advantage of persistent dampness in a home, whether from water damage, standing water, or steam. Those mold spores can become a serious health problem without expert mold remediation and removal work. Mold can also physically damage structural and porous materials, requiring them to be removed, leading to a major expense. Preventing a mold outbreak to avoid health issues and home damage is always best. Still, if a problem develops, you may need expert mold remediation help to ensure your environment is healthy and safe. SERVPRO of East Nashville offers everything you need for mold cleanup. 

Why Mold Remediation is Important  

Mold causes a variety of problems in residential homes or commercial buildings. Mold does not make distinctions as it will locate the moisture it needs to facilitate its growth. Its dark, fuzzy stains are unsightly, of course, but its ugly appearance is the least serious thing about the spread of mold. The mold spores can cause a range of symptoms in healthy adults and children – watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and respiratory problems. Someone with asthma or a compromised immune system can be in serious trouble if they inhale mold spores, often requiring doctor visits and medication. Mold can also rot wood and drywall, causing structural damage to your frame or subfloor. Some mold and mildew can sometimes be cleaned with a bleach and water solution and a sponge. But many problems call for professional mold remediation and removal.   

What Causes Mold Problems  

Mold spores are everywhere indoors and outdoors. They only really become an issue when they have dark and damp places to take hold and multiply. Moisture is the trigger. You probably know the most common causes of moisture buildup, but there is an extensive list. What people may not think of as sources, like watering numerous plants at home and drip-drying your clothes, can factor in mold growth. Those situations with moisture create a conducive environment for mold spores to multiply and spread across surfaces. 

Water damage from flooding or fires creates a perfect environment for mold growth in walls and under vinyl flooring, which may force the removal and replacement of water-damaged materials. In these and other cases, like a broken water hose that floods your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, you should call experts to dry out the affected areas with industrial dryers and other relevant equipment.  

Mold exposure can cause respiratory symptoms that mimic pollen, dust, or pet dander allergies – runny nose, watery eyes, nasal congestion, but can be far more serious. You may also experience coughing and fatigue. Long-term exposure can make you more sensitive to mold spores and worsen future exposure. People with allergies, asthma, and compromised immune systems require mold issues to be solved to avoid exposure and health complications. Again, no one does it better than professional mold removal experts. 

Preventing Mold Damage  

You can avoid the need for mold damage removal and restoration work, but you cannot avoid mold. Mold spores are everywhere, including in your home or business. Those spores often won't cause any issues, but if conditions are right, they produce an outbreak of unsightly and unhealthy mold.  

Persistent dampness is the enemy because that creates a perfect environment. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of mold damage:  

• Patch water leaks  
• Clean up any standing water or damp spots, no matter how small  
• Vent your bathroom when running the dryer or taking a hot shower  

• If you have a laundry room, make sure to vent the dryer  
• Wipe up moisture around the bathroom sink  
• Use a vent fan in the kitchen when cooking to keep steam from turning into condensation.  
• If you have a basement, use a dehumidifier to keep down the humidity level   
• Your home's foundation should also slope away from the house to prevent water from pooling near the base or collecting under the house  

Many of the same prevention tips apply to commercial buildings. In short, no matter the kind of home or building, keep the environment as dry as you can to eliminate water sources.  

Prevention is the Key to Keeping Mold Under Control  

Remember that moisture breeds mold, so the best way to avoid the health problems a mold infestation causes is to keep your home dry. Should a problem arise, it is recommended that any homeowner or business owner call a specialty mold remediation and removal service. Mold can be easy to control, but once a mold problem develops, it can cause all sorts of issues. If you have a significant issue with mold in your home or business, do not wait to get professional help. Call the mold remediation experts at SERVPRO at (615) 868-5324.