Eric Middleton
NYS Lic# 16000004785
516-455-6742
516-417-3383
seven days a week
NYS Lic# 16000004785
516-455-6742
516-417-3383
seven days a week
Blogs
Mold
Submitted by EricMiddleton on Fri, 07/31/2009 - 05:04.Mold is literally a growing concern.EPA studies indicate that air levels of indoor pollutants may be two to three times higher than outdoor levels. Mold, the most dangerous offender of all, often goes undetected because of its invisibility. Most people spend as much as 90% of their time indoors and are not aware of the health hazards created by this pollutant.You owe it to yourself to minimize your exposure to mold spores.
There are several ways you can become exposed to mold:
Breathing in the spores from the air.
Skin contact from handling an item that has mold growing on it.
Eating without properly washing your hands after handling moldy objects.
Mold has the potential to cause health problems and even make a home uninhabitable. Some mold can produce allergens, irritants and, in some cases potentially toxic chemical substances known as mycotoxins.People who are sensitive and exposed to mycotoxins can become ill. Mold can cause asthma attacks as well.
Exposure to mold even in small amounts may cause:
Itching or irritation of the nose, eyes, throat or skin
Skin rashes
Sinus infections or congestion/ sinusitis (runny nose)
Respiratory problems (sneezing and coughing)
Upper or lower respiratory infections
Fatigue
Frequent headaches
Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, confusion
Mood swings, anxiety, depression
Chronic aches and pains
Digestive problems
Mold can be found in several areas in the home environment. It appears most often in moist areas as little black circles or thread-like white objects. It is usually accompanied with a musty-type odor. Mold begins to grow indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet or damp. It will not grow without water or moisture. Therefore, It is important to dry water damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Areas of mold growth in the home include:
Basements, kitchens (bottom of fridge)
around bathroom vanities, washer/dryer area.
The underside of carpets and pads.
The surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms)
Ceilings and the top side of ceiling tiles
Front and back of drywall, wall paper or paneling
Inside HVAC systems and duct work
The following may prevent or reduce indoor mold growth:
Repair any water leaks
Provide good air circulation
All HVAC systems should have a good electrostatic filter on the return
Use bathroom, kitchen and laundry room exhaust fans
Insulate and ventilate attic and crawl space areas
Clean, dry or remove items that are damaged by water immediately
If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem.If you clean the mold, but do not fix the water problem, the mold will grow back.
If you suspect mold in your home or place of business, by all means hire an inspector.
