Surviving the Dangers of Mold in the Home
Mold can be a severe problem for those living in damp areas. It can cause nasty health issues, but dealing with mold growth can be difficult and expensive.
In this post, we want to explore the effects of mold, signs of its presence, and the best ways to get rid of it. Knowing this information can help you protect yourself and your home from the dangers of mold.
What are the Details on Black Mold?
The term “black mold” is often used to refer to a variety of species of mold that are black or green in appearance. Of these, Stachybotrys Chartarum (also known as toxic mold) is the best-known. But don’t let its ominous name fool you—black mold is no more dangerous than other types of mold.
That said, exposure to any mold can still lead to serious health issues such as the below.
- Stuffy Nose
- Skin Irritation
- Sore Throat
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Upper Respiratory Tract Issues
People with asthma are especially vulnerable to mold and may experience worse breathing issues due to exposure.
Signs of Mold in Your Home
Mold thrives in warm and moist areas. You can often identify mold in the home by its distinctive musty smell. It can also leave dark water spots in its wake.
Further, it can grow on various building materials, including paper, cardboard, wood, insulation, drywall, wallpaper, and carpet.
How to Get Rid of Mold
The best way to keep mold away is to control moisture in the house. Repair any leaks from the roof, pipes, and windows, and invest in a dehumidifier for areas with a lot of humidity. Clean up any spilled liquids immediately.
However, once mold has started to grow on fabric or other porous material, you’ll likely need to replace it. For non-porous surfaces, a mixture of bleach and water should do the trick (1 cup to 1 gallon of water).
When removing mold, ensure proper ventilation, keep your hands covered with non-porous gloves, and wear protective eyewear. If the infestation is more extensive than you can handle, professional help may be necessary.
In Conclusion
Mold can pose a real threat to our health, but thankfully, there are several precautions we can take to prevent it from taking root in our homes. Keep an eye out for its telltale signs, and take action quickly if it does appear. Doing so can help keep your home clean, safe, and comfortable.