Things You Should Know About Mold |
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- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, lung irritation, breathing difficulty, and other respiratory complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
- If mold (such as black mold or Stachybotrys) is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity to decrease mold growth by:
- venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
- using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
- increasing ventilation
- using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning
- Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mildew and mold growth.
- Clean mold off hard surfaces (including basement areas and tile grout) and replace absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, inspect the area frequently to prevent any mould problems (test and correct any condition immediately if found) and do not install carpeting.
- Mold can be found almost anywhere; it can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
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