Mold can grow anywhere moisture can accumulate, even under the most controlled conditions.
It is why mold remediation should always begin with moisture control. Taking action quickly when water leaks occur and thoroughly drying wet materials and areas 24-48 hours after the initial event will prevent mold growth.
Cleaning
A tiny fungus called mold can develop on practically any surface. Its spores are airborne and need moisture to thrive.
Mold can develop in homes, schools, commercial buildings, and other places with excessive humidity or moisture from leaks, condensation, water damage, flooding, and other sources. As a result, mold is a primary concern for building owners and managers.
Cleaning removes dirt, dust, crumbs, and germs from surfaces or objects. It may not necessarily kill the germs, but it will reduce the number of germs that can spread infections.
Cleaning is an essential part of mold remediation and moisture control. It involves removing visible mold growth and disinfecting or sanitizing affected areas, such as walls and floors. However, it is not a substitute for microbial remediation, which must be performed after cleaning.
Dehumidifiers
A dehumidifier is a great way to control mold in the home, as it reduces humidity. Humidity is crucial in mold growth, as it creates the conditions for mold to thrive.
Mold needs water, dampness, moisture, and warmth to thrive, and dehumidifiers can significantly reduce the amount of these elements in your home.
In addition to preventing mold, dehumidifiers also help keep your home healthy. High humidity levels can contribute to respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma symptoms.
Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air by forcing it out through condensation. So every time you shower, wash your dishes, or cook something, water evaporates from the surface and adds to the moisture in the air.
Ventilation
One of the basic features of mold remediation and moisture control is ventilation. Ventilation is the mechanical system that brings fresh air from outside and expels contaminated indoor air.
Appropriate ventilation is required to maintain a building free of airborne contaminants, including dust, gases, and harmful fumes and vapors. There are different types of ventilation to meet varying climatic conditions.
It is also vital for the health of the people living in a building. Sound ventilation systems keep the air quality in the building consistent so that people can breathe easily and remain healthy.
A ventilation system will also prevent mold growth by removing excess humidity from home. It is essential in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Preventative Measures
Molds are found almost everywhere; they can grow on wood, paper, carpet, insulation, foods, and other organic materials if moisture and oxygen are present.
They reproduce by creating tiny spores that cannot be seen without magnification and continually float through indoor and outdoor air. When spores settle on a damp surface, they begin to develop and digest whatever they are growing on to survive.
These spores can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks in some people who are sensitive to them. They also can produce toxins or irritants affecting some individuals’ eyes, skin, and nose.
Although it is impossible to eliminate all mold spores, managing the environment’s moisture can help prevent or reduce mold formation. It is the most effective mold prevention strategy. The EPA recommends keeping relative humidity in your home below 45 percent to avoid mycotoxin production (Mold toxins) and to keep your family healthy.
