Moisture is one of the main culprits when it comes to home mold growth, and controlling moisture is also one of the best ways to avoid future outbreaks.
Mold spores can be found all throughout our homes and thrive on various organic materials found within wood panels or the backside of gypsum wallboard, as well as dust particles and other forms of debris. Fortunately, mold damage is covered by the best home warranty Illinois. However, it is better to prevent instead of acting.
Moisture
Mold thrives in moist environments and attacks organic material like drywall, wallpaper and carpeting. Roof leaks, poorly insulated walls, poorly operating washing machines, water leaking around AC coils or any faulty building materials may all increase mold growth and cause it to spread further.
Mold spores deposited on damp surfaces and inhaled can trigger allergies or asthma attacks in some individuals, and certain species produce mycotoxins that may pose further dangers for those with compromised immune systems.
Keep humidity under 50% by using circulating fans and dehumidifiers in rooms with high moisture levels, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Monitor plumbing connections regularly for leaks and repair them as soon as they occur.
Temperature
Mold spores float freely through the air until they find an environment suitable for their growth, especially when there are carpets present. Aside from moisture, they need oxygen and food sources such as paper, wallpaper or drywall for sustenance – conditions where warmth and humidity prevail are perfect environments for mold development.
As mold thrives between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, keeping your home as cool as possible during the hotter summer months is vitally important to its wellbeing.
Extreme temperatures may kill mold spores, but they remain dangerous. Extreme heat should only ever be used as a last resort when treating mold problems in homes or buildings. Mold spores are inhaled into the respiratory tract or consumed and can trigger allergic reactions or worsen existing health conditions; Alternaria, Aspergillus and Cladosporium are some of the more commonly found home molds; they prefer damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens where dusty or powdery food items lie around; Penicillium forms on fabrics and wood materials damaged by water damage – never use extreme heat as a solution!
Air Circulation
Air circulation in your home can help to combat mold growth. By keeping air flowing freely and eliminating moisture build-up, circulating air will lessen the chance that mildew or mold grows in your home.
Mold produces spores that float freely through the air in search of damp surfaces to grow on. When they land on wet materials, mold releases toxic and irritant compounds into the atmosphere – this may aggravate people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Air circulation is especially essential in moist environments such as bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture accumulation occurs. Utilizing exhaust fans in these rooms can help circulate air while keeping it dry.
Poor ventilation contributes to mold growth and other contaminants in the air, potentially creating health risks when air remains stagnant for too long. Ventilation also helps decrease dust, debris, and other particles which could potentially be toxic for human beings.
Cleaning
As soon as you notice mold, whether it be spots along your shower door track or widespread outbreaks in your basement, take swift action to eliminate it quickly and effectively. The longer mold spores remain present in a room, the greater its damage.
Start by physically removing mold growth, which may involve using a brush and soapy water or heavily diluting bleach solution to scrub. Protect your nose and mouth while doing this in a well-ventilated area; and rinse and dry the surfaces afterwards to stop further growth.
Be sure to thoroughly scrub and rinse all areas, such as within cabinetry, behind toilets, and underneath sinks. If you suspect a sewer or sewer backup caused the mold, seek help from professionals specializing in restoring homes damaged by floods and sewage backup. They should have experience in cleaning contaminated building materials such as carpets, furniture and textiles as well as pinpointing its source in order to stop future mold growth.