Is Living in a Home with Mold Dangerous?
In caves, forests and other environments, mold processes rotting organic material and enriches the surrounding soil, but it can bring its share of major health issues if you allow it to thrive in your house. Thankfully, most types of mold are typically easy to ignore, but a small splotch can grow to bigger proportions. When mold reproduces, it releases spores into the air which can cause illness when inhaled by anyone with allergies or asthma. According to a few studies, there might be a link between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. Common mold or mildew is nontoxic for many people, but can be harmful for those with respiratory issues. Typically, the amount of mold and degree of a person's allergies has the most effect on their response. Sneezing, coughing, runny nose, red eyes, wheezing, headaches and typical cold-like symptoms are usually associated with mold allergies, making it hard to target the problem accurately. The most severe reactions include shortness of breath. Those with asthma must be particularly careful around large populations of mold as it may trigger asthma attacks. Other sensitive groups at risk include:- Babies and children
- The elderly
- Those with a weak immune system
- Anyone with severe lung disease
Where Mold can be Found
Mildew and mold does grow bigger over time in damp places. A home can get a mold infestation through doors left open, open windows, vents and air conditioning and heating systems. Mold doesn't only enter your home through open doors and windows. It can also fasten onto your clothes, bags, animals and shoes and be moved your home. The growth of mold will have a huge impact on the health of your family, your possessions and the building itself. Mold growth commonly occurs in wet 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
How to Prevent Mold in your Home
When it comes to stopping mold from getting into your home, there are certain preventative steps you can take. We suggest you do the following:- Build in ventilation in showers, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Monitor the humidity levels
- In the case of a flood, carefully clean and dry your home
- Immediately patch up leaky roofs, windows and pipes
- Talk to professional mold damage restoration contractors for affordable mold remediation