If you live in Central Florida, you know that humidity levels here are no joke. Mold is a common issue affecting houses due to different factors.
In many cases, mold can get out of control and become an unpleasant stain threatening your family’s health and eventually damaging your property’s structure.
This blog post will outline tips and tricks to control mold so you can keep your home healthy and free from this pesky problem.
What Is Mold and Why Should You Be Concerned About It
Mold is a fungus that grows and spreads on various organic and non-organic materials. They can survive indoors and outdoors, during all four seasons, and in any climate. In other words, mold is like an unwanted guest returning to your house.
Funguses rely on living plants and decomposing organic materials to thrive in the outdoors; for example, that white spiderweb-like coating of an old strawberry.
On the other hand, molds depend on moisture and a carbon source, such as wood or paper, to survive outdoors. For instance, this mold could thrive in your bathroom or on a water-damaged wall.
When mold is detected, it indicates an issue with extremely wet areas in your home that are beginning to deteriorate the materials used in its construction. If you let it advance, it can represent a large and unnecessary expense.
The Dangers of Mold Exposure
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold can cause the following symptoms:
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Coughing or wheezing
- Burning eyes
- Skin rash
Mold carries the same health dangers for humans as for the surfaces and things it grows on—particularly asthmatics and those with severe allergic responses.
How to Identify Mold in Your Environment
Mold comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes. It grows on different surfaces like carpets, walls, and ceilings. The three most common types of mold are black, green, and white.
Its musty smell can identify it. If you notice a moldy odor in your home, this is a sign that you have a mold problem.
Mold also leaves behind telltale signs, such as
- Discoloration on walls or ceilings
- Peeling paint
- Stains
- Bubbling wallpaper
- Condensation on windows
Tips for Preventing and Controlling Mold
Even if mold is a widespread issue, that doesn’t mean we have to accept it. It’s possible to kill mold in our homes and offices by taking simple daily precautions. Here are some ways to do that:
1. Reduce Indoor Humidity
Keep the indoor humidity level below 60% to reduce the chances of mold growth. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to remove excess moisture from the air. Ventilate your home, especially during humid weather conditions.
2. Fix Leaks and Other Water Problems
Leaks in plumbing fixtures, roofs, or windows can provide the ideal environment for mold to grow. Repair any water leaks as soon as possible and make sure that your home’s gutters are clean and functioning properly.
3. Clean and Dry Up Wet Areas Immediately.
If your home has been damaged by flooding or leaks, immediately clean and dry the affected area. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold will begin to grow if the room is not properly dried.
4. Use Mold-Resistant Products
Whenever possible, use mold-resistant materials when renovating or building new construction projects. These materials include acoustical tile, drywall, mold-resistant paints, and caulk.
5. Monitor Moisture Levels
Use a moisture meter to monitor wall cavities, ceilings, floors, and crawlspaces. Remediate any areas with high moisture levels to prevent mold growth.
If you find mold developing in your house, you should have it removed before it spreads and causes more problems for your family’s health.
Let Mold Remediation of Orlando Help You
Mold can cause serious health issues and expensive property damage, so if you suspect you have it in your house, it’s best to have a professional remove it as soon as possible.
Orlando, Florida, residents and business owners can trust Mold Remediation of Orlando for thorough mold testing, removal, and restoration services. From inspection to rebuilding, mold removal is our top priority at every stage of the process.
Get in touch with us today! We’re here to assist you in maintaining a secure home environment.