Mould can be a very sneaky substance. As it thrives in moist, dark areas, many wouldn’t think it would be a major problem for humans. However, once excess moisture has settled into any kind of porous material, such as drywall, it becomes a problem for everyone. It then has the ability to disperse its spores and spread throughout the entire property. Here are a few reasons why you want to get this problem taken care of as soon as possible:
Dangers of Mould Sneaking Into the Home
As mould can be classified as a fungus, it grows and responds the same as the others within its kingdom. In other words, it develops, eats, and spread its spores the same as other moulds, mushrooms, and bacteria. The home provides the perfect resources to allow for its development and growth. The CDC, or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, warns about the dangers of living with mould in the home:
- Respiratory tract symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and swelling of the throat.
- Those who have asthma and allergy problems are especially at risk.
- Those with hypersensitivity pneumonitis are prone to the immune-mediated condition
Although not the most common, black mould is classified to be one of the most dangerous types of moulds. As it is most frequently found in the dark, undisturbed areas, these places can include rarely-used shower stalls, behind the walls, in the attic, crawlspaces, and underneath staircases. In order to avoid these uninvited, dangerous inhabitants, be sure to check these areas every now and then in addition to keeping moisture levels to a minimum.
Air Travelers
Mould will thrive anywhere there is an optimal amount of moisture and porous materials to feast on. These conditions can include a leaking roof, leaking pipes, wet or damp areas of the basement and crawlspaces, flooding, or any path of moisture from the kitchen pipes to the basement. Even leaving damp towels on the floor is sufficient for mould growth.
As soon as it has found a proper location to grow and develop, mould will easily be able to travel through the air, finding other susceptible spots. This is where negative health effects start to occur. Keep in mind that mould can be the cause of the following symptoms:
- Allergies have suddenly grown worse
- Sudden itching, sneezing, and rashes
- Feeling irritable and lethargic
- Difficulty breathing and/or sleeping
Although mould prefers to remain in undisturbed areas, it will release its spores when feeling the slightest disturbance. These can include vibrations within the walls and floors when people are walking around on the above floor. When these spores are dispersed into the air, they can then enter the ventilation systems, such as the air ducts and air conditioning unit. Once they are inhaled, this is where the symptoms of coughing, wheezing, sneezing, etc. will start to take effect.
Damage of Building Materials
Once the source of the mould has developed in a certain area, it has the ability to eat away at its host; this can cause severe damage to the structural integrity of your property. Potential signs can include damaged hardwood floors, discolouration of the walls and ceilings, or condensation on the windows and walls. It can also be associated with a strong, musty odour. Those who are most sensitive to strong smells will notice this right away.
As mould will not go away on its own, it is up to you, the property owner, to find the mould and call professional mould remediation services. These will include:
- Inspection and remediating areas that do not receive much traffic
- Decluttering the property if there are items that are contributing to the risk of mould
- Lowering the moisture levels within the home or building
- Proper air circulation throughout the property.
As soon as you notice signs of mould, be sure to look in all places to find where it may be hiding. You can also call IBX Services for professional mould removal services to inspect, remediate, and prevent it from occurring in the future. The technicians have years of experience and ongoing training to ensure their services are updated and the most effective.
