The Health Dangers of Mold
While mold plays a crucial role in nature, it is a problem if it invades your home. Fortunately, most kinds of mold are generally innocent, but sometimes a tiny spot can grow to large proportions. Mold reproduces using spores that are freed into the air and causes problems if breathed in by people with allergies or respiratory issues. A few studies have also found a link between an early exposure to mold and the development of asthma in some younger children. Household mold is not a problem for most folks, but can hurt more sensitive groups. These mold allergies are common for many people and hit on different occasions depending on the density of mold. Sneezing, coughing, runny nose, red eyes, wheezing, headaches and other cold-like reactions are commonly seen with mold and mildew allergies, making it difficult to pinpoint accurately. The most serious reactions include difficulty breathing. Mold and mildew can also trigger asthma attacks as well. Other groups at risk include:- Babies and toddlers
- Those 65 and up
- Immune compromised individuals
- People with chronic lung disease
Where Mold can be Found
Mold and mildew will build up over time in moist areas. Mold enters your home through any opening, such as doors left ajar, windows, vents and HVAC systems. Mold doesn't only enter a home through windows and doors. It can attach onto your clothes, backpacks, animals and shoes and be moved indoors. Mold growth doesn't only affect your family's health-- it can affect your possessions and the structure itself. Mold growth typically occurs in wet places, but it can be found in unexpected places. These include:- Paper products
- Ceiling tiles
- Cardboard
- Wood products
- Paints
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Upholstery
How to Stop Mold in your Home
You can take preventative steps to ensure that mold won't grow in your home. Here's some easy steps you can take:- Install ventilation in showers, laundry rooms and kitchen
- Manage the humidity levels in your home
- In the case of a flood, clean and dry your home carefully
- Immediately mend leaky roofs, windows and pipes
- Contact professional mold damage repair contractors for affordable mold removal
