Should you get a mold inspection done regularly if you own residential or commercial property in California? Mold exposure can lead to serious health problems. It can also hurt the value of your property. We’ve put together 7 things you need to know about mold to help you protect your home or business and make educated choices about testing for contaminates like these.
- Fungal Spores Can Make Sensitive People Sick
- Plumbing Problems Can Quickly Turn Into Mold Problems
- Condensation Can Encourage Infestation
- Carpet In Damp Areas Nurtures Mildew
- It’s Important To Control Indoor Humidity
- The Sooner You Clean Up Water, The Better
- Professional Remediation Is More Effective Than DIY
1. Mold & Chronic Medical Conditions Don’t Mix
Mold exposure may cause reactions in people who suffer from chronic medical conditions such as asthma, seasonal allergies, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you have an allergy or are sensitive, fungal spores may potentially get into your airways, causing respiratory inflammation that makes it hard to breathe.
2. Plumbing Problems Can Lead To Mold Growth
Mold requires a wet, humid environment in which to grow. If you have plumbing problems in your building, you could create an environment that is ripe for fungus growth. You should quickly fix plumbing and water leak issues to prevent the growth of mold.
3. Condensation Is A Common Source Of Mold Growth
Condensation throughout your home or building can also make it easier for fungal spores to grow. Common surfaces on which condensation can develop include your windows, piping, roof, and floors. You can add insulation to prevent condensation or install a dehumidifier.
4. You Should Avoid Carpeting In Wet, Damp Areas
Drinking fountains, gym bathrooms, and classroom sinks are perpetually wet. You don’t want to install carpet in these areas. Carpet traps moisture and takes a long time to dry, which can lead to mold growth.
5. Reducing Indoor Humidity Can Prevent Mold Growth
You can use exhaust fans, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers to reduce humidity and address existing moisture problems. Remember to turn these devices on if you are cooking or cleaning to prevent excess humidity from collecting in the room.
6. You Should Dry All Wet Materials Quickly
If you have a roof leak, flood, or plumbing issue, it’s important to dry any wet building materials or furnishings as quickly and thoroughly as possible. If you dry them within the first 24 to 48 hours, you are more likely to prevent mold infestations.
7. You Must Hire Professionals To Eliminate Mold
It is nearly impossible for you to eliminate all mold spores on your own. If you control moisture, you can reduce the chances of exposure. To minimize your chances of developing a chronic problem, professional remediation from a licensed cleanup company may be necessary.
Indoor air quality testing is a great first step if you are considering remediation. You may also want to re-test to make sure your removal efforts were effective.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Mold Inspection & Testing
Now that you know more about conditions that help fungal spores take root and thrive, you probably have a good idea whether or not testing is a good option for you too. If you are worried about mold exposure after a flood, in an older home, or because of a rise in work allergies, we’re here to get you answers. At Benchmark Environmental Engineering, we specialize in professional mold testing and inspections in San Jose, California, and the surrounding areas.
Contact us to schedule your service today to ensure health and safety at home and work.