While molds are common and natural in the environment, when mold begins to grow indoors it can cause many problems. Mold can pose significant risks to the health and safety of building inhabitants. Mold can also cause damage to structures, which may affect home or business value and integrity. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to prevent mold from becoming an issue.
Understanding Mold Growth
Mold spores move through the air and land on surfaces. If a surface is moist and contains nutrients that mold can feed on, the environment is conducive to mold growth. In a building, moisture may be introduced through activities like cooking or showering, or may be introduced through issues like leaky roofs or pipes. Condensation forms when a surface is cooler than the air, which may also create an environment that contributes to mold growth.
Identifying Mold Problem Areas
While places like a kitchen or bathroom are naturally at risk for developing mold, other areas like a basement that floods or a chimney with a loose firebox that allows moisture in may also be problematic. To begin a mold action plan, first assess the whole building and identify all of the areas with moisture problems in the building. Make a list so that it is easier to tackle each area and mitigate mold dangers.
Reduce Everyday Mold with Actions and Ventilation
Taking everyday actions to prevent moisture from sitting in one place, such as picking up wet towels, can help to prevent mold growth. Installing ventilation systems and engaging humidity control devices can also help to prevent moisture from accumulating. Cleaning all surfaces regularly can help to prevent mold from getting a foothold, as it takes time to grow.
Direct Water Away from Home
Many buildings are inefficiently designed, with a slope that allows rainwater to collect around the foundation and seep into the basement. Roofs may also be designed so that water splashes into or on the home. Correcting these problems so that rainwater is directed away from the home can prevent mold growth and costly water damage.
Hire Mold Restoration Services if Necessary
If a disaster occurs and the building floods or becomes water damaged, contacting mold restoration
services immediately may help to mitigate mold dangers. Mold restoration experts know how to prevent mold from growing in the building and can perform tests to ensure that the building is mold free. Restoration experts may identify hidden mold that is not immediately obvious, so it is important that home or building owners do not attempt to perform restoration without the help of experts.
Identifying and mitigating mold dangers can help to keep occupants safe and prevent building damage.