Mold Basics:
The key to mold control is moisture control. It is important to
dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent
mold growth.
Why
is mold growing in my home?
Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play
a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen
leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided.
Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible
to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold
may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that
are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow
without water or moisture.
Can mold cause health problems?
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land
on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential
to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that
can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially
toxic substances (mycotoxins).
Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions
in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type
symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash
(dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be
immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people
with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure
can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold
allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic
and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling
mold.
Have
Ultimate Building Maintenance evaluate and determine if
mold is a problem at your residence or business using certified
methods of indoor air quality testing by calling:
(888) 923 9998
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