Mold and Indoor Air Quality

Page 1 of 2 ( 1 2 )

Simple things like moisture from laundry and showers, improperly vented dryers, air conditioning that goes off during hot moist months, and standing water can lead to mold growth in the most unlikely places. Mold destroys materials it grows and feeds on, but the central problem with mold is how it impacts human health. Possible allergic reactions to mold include a runny nose, itchy eyes, nasal and sinus congestion, a cough, a sore throat, or sinus infections. People with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma may experience difficulty breathing. Those with suppressed immune systems or underlying lung disease will be susceptible to fungal infections when exposed to mold. Some people might develop acute or chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, an inflammation of the lung caused by the body's immune reaction to mold’s small air-borne particles. Mold may even play a part in major illnesses, but researchers have not been able to prove or disprove the theory. Mold Growth and Elimination Mold reproduces by sending out tiny, lightweight spores that live and feed on moist surfaces. In order to grow and multiply, mold spores need moisture, a food source, and a suitable surface. Mold can survive long periods of time under adverse conditions until it finds these three conditions. Home basements can be the ideal breeding ground for mold, since they are frequently cold, damp, and prone to water problems. Mold is easily identified, but not always seen. It shows up as discoloration, watermarks, or stains on walls, floors, and furnishings. It can look velvety, grainy, or leathery. It may be white, gray, green, yellow, black, brown, or even pink. When it can’t be seen, mold can usually be smelled. It has a distinctive dank, musty odor. If mold is seen or smelled, assume a mold problem exists. Remove it and correct the moisture problems that have caused it to grow. Sometimes finding the source means looking under carpets or flooring or behind wallpaper, sink cabinets, and furniture. Items stored near outside walls or on cold floors should be checked. It might even be necessary to use a more aggressive approach, such as opening up a wall cavity. Controlling Basement Moisture Depending on its severity, correcting the source of moisture could end up being a simple job or require outside help. Just using a dehumidifier and line-drying laundry outside may solve a problem with high humidity. Using the air conditioner during warm, moist months is critical for humid-climate homes. Foundation cracks or perimeter drainage problems resulting in water intrusion call for a contractor just as leaky pipes and pools of standing water require a plumber. A qualified HVAC technician should be able to install proper appliance venting to eliminate moisture buildup from the dryer. Homeowners should always check a firm’s references.

...Continued - Page 1 of 2 ( 1 2 )
Next Page >