Is There Water Damage Mold in Your House?

Why should you care about water damage mold in your home or work place? Because that water damage mold could be the source of some major health problems for you or the people around you. Even though most research has not yet conclusively determined if mold is toxic to all people, we do know it can have a negative effect on some people. We also know that people who live or work in an environment where mold is allowed to grow and spread do indeed have more health problems.

What is Water Damage Mold and Why is This Important to You?

Mold spores are literally everywhere. In the air, on most every surface, even in the water. There are literally countless mold spores in just about every place on the planet. You cannot avoid mold. All those billions and billions of microscopic mold spores have a problem - they are all looking for a place to call home. And all they really need is water and whatever organic substance happens to be present in just about any environment. If there is a damp, moist, or wet place in your home, mold is likely to grow there. Just take a look at your shower tile if you haven't cleaned it in awhile. All that black stuff collecting in the corners is mold. Water damage mold is mold that grows on surfaces that are wet or moist.

Water Damage Mold Sets up Housekeeping in Just 24 to 48 Hours

So, if all these mold spores need is a damp, moist place to live then it makes sense that if there are any damp or moist places in your home or workplace, there's likely to be mold growing there. This is especially true of those homes and businesses located in extremely humid and hot climates. Throw in the unlikely but very possible scenario of a flood occurring in your home or workplace, and you've got the makings of a colossal water damage mold outbreak. It's always best to keep the air conditioning on in the warmer months and the heat on in the cooler months. This will help to dry the indoor air and prevent mold from getting a foothold in your home.

People and Mold Shouldn't Live Together

OK, so mold is not one of the worst things to happen to a home or workplace. However, for those who have allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues, mold can be a health hazard. While research is still out on the toxic levels of mold and what exactly mold can do to people, one thing is for certain - people and mold do not go together. We do know that those people who live and work in a place affected by widespread mold are usually less healthy. We also know that mold can cause headaches, sore throat, skin rashes, irritation to eyes, breathing problems, and even worsen allergic reactions in some people. If you have mold around you, it's best to get rid of mold now.

How to Identify and Clean Up Water Damage Mold

You can always do this yourself, but it might be best to let a professional handle the problem. Professional water damage mold specialists will be able to identify a problem with mold, and just how big a problem it might be for you. Using tools like an infrared camera to look inside of walls, under floors, and into crawl spaces, a water damage mold specialist will be able to see if mold is present. They also use a moisture meter to identify likely places where moisture accumulates, and a boroscope to look into tiny crevasses and areas where no person could see.

A reputable mold remediation specialist will have all the necessary tools and the expertise to locate, identify, and eradicate any mold growing in your home or business. Check into YellowPages.com and look under headings like "mold remediation", "damage restoration", or "water damage service." If you must do it yourself, there are also a lot of good books and mold remediation clean up kits available online.

Sources:

GetRidofThings.com; "How to Get Rid of Mold"

EPA.gov; "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, amd Your Home"

Realtor.org; "Frequently Asked Questions About Mold"