How to Deal with a Mold Problem

Biological pollutants are found in every home. The main culprits are mold, mildew, bacteria and fungi. Slime and fungus molds are usually found in areas that are damp or have high humidity. Areas like bathrooms, kitchen, laundry rooms and basements are prime targets for mold growth because of the damp and humid conditions found there. If mold is left undetected or is not cleaned up immediately, it can lead to serious health problems.

As a homeowner, you should do everything you can to prevent mold growth in your home. If a problem is discovered, you can call in a professional. As mold grows and reproduces, it releases spores into the air. These spores land on surfaces and can generate new mold growth in moist conditions.

The airborne mold can adversely affect people in the home who have allergies or are prone to respiratory ailments. Even those who are not prone to allergies can suffer. Symptoms are respiratory in nature, but itchy and watery eyes and nose are also common. Mold can also cause chronic fatigue symptoms.

In addition, mold growth can damage your homes structure. Structural damage to your home caused by mold can cost you thousands of dollars to repair if left undetected. The good news is that there are many options available to eradicate mold from your home.

There is only one way to prevent mold from recurring and that is to remove what causes mold to form in the first place. All traces of water seepage and leaks must be removed. The humidity in damp areas must be lowered. This can be accomplished by installing a dehumidifier. After these controls are in place, any mold should be removed using approved methods. This can include vapor steam cleaning and vacuuming carpets with a HEPA vacuum. Be careful using these products as improper mold removal can cause the mold spores to become airborne.

There are many mold prevention products available on the market. You can purchase washable filters for your furnace. These filters keep allergens from circulating through the house and can help prevent allergy attacks.

Another option is an air purifier. These mechanisms can remove mold, dust, pollen and even some harmful gases from the air. Many are quiet enough to use in bedrooms. HEPA vacuums are also available. These offer very high filtration of mold, some bacteria and allergens. Dust mite covers for bedding can be useful too. You can even get bedding made from specially cleaned white goose down that will not promote allergies.

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Do I Have Mold?
Beginners guide to determining if you have mold.

Preventing Mold Problems
Quick information about how to prevent mold from happening

Getting Rid Of Mold
Tips and ideas on how to get rid of mold.

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