As a home owner, there are many things you shouldn’t overlook, but a big one is mold in your home. Mold in your home can lead to a wide variety of health issues for you and your family, and it is important to catch it early and remove it as soon as you can.
What are the health risks of mold in the home?
There is a long laundry list of health risks associated with mold exposure. For starters, many people have allergic reactions when in the presence of mold. This can look like anything from coughing, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and any other seasonal allergy symptom. Prolonged exposure to mold in the home can lead to asthma, conditions like cystic fibrosis, mold related infections, pneumonia, and even tuberculosis. These are also anecdotal evidence that mold exposure can lead to memory loss and other head related issues. These conditions can be serious and can greatly impact your quality of life, which is why it is crucial to take care of more exposure quickly.
How does mold get into your home?
Mold spores can get into your home through any opening like a door or window. They can enter your home by latching onto your clothes, your family, and your bets. These spores thrive in moist, dark environments and can latch on to all sorts of materials. It is not uncommon to find mold in carpets, paint, wood, insulation, and even wallpaper. Because moisture is so crucial to mold surviving, it is very important to control the humidity and water levels in your home. You also may want to hire professional cleaners to check out your home vents and other areas.
How can you determine if there is mold in your home?
There are a few key indicators that can help you determine if you have mold in your home. Mold has a very distinct odor that many describe as musty or earthy. Mold is also common in areas where you are experiencing water damage. Look for squishy floors or carpets, as this is a sign that there is water and likely mold in your floors. You should also keep your eyes out for broken or warped looking surfaces, as this can be a sign of water damage as well. Finally, in some cases you may actually be able to see the mold. Mold will look slightly fuzzy, and can range from green, black, yellow, white, brown, or grey in color.
What should I do if I think there is mold in my home?
If you are experiencing any of the health issues listed above, or have determined that there may be mold in your home, it is time to call the experts immediately. A licensed contractor will help you remove the mold and can make your home a healthy and happy place to be again.
When it comes to mold in your home, there are many long-term health effects that can greatly impair your quality of life. If you suspect there is mold in your home, or have seen any of the warning signs above, call a professional immediately.