Are your allergy symptoms not improving? Are you experiencing a cough that doesn’t seem to go away? Have you ever wondered why these health-related problems keep reoccurring every now and then for no obvious or logical reason?
Your recurrent health conditions could possibly be caused by mold. Mold is everywhere and can be a part of the indoor ecosystem. What we can do is to know, understand, control, and prevent mold issues to avoid experiencing these negative effects. ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief has compiled them for you.
What is Mold?
- Molds are fungi that grow from microscopic spores found in the air and grow on surfaces in mold cluster form.
- Mold requires moisture and organic material to grow. It can appear greenish-gray, brownish-green, gray or black.
- Mold thrives best on surfaces having warmth, oxygen, and darkness.
- Household mold can thrive almost everywhere, such as the bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, living room, and other areas.
- Mold can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours after a water damage event.
- After a flood, mold may grow in hidden places, including behind drywall, within insulation, on carpets or throughout the HVAC system.
- Mold is propagated by spores, acting as seeds to create new colonies.
- Mold formation starts with the presence of mold spores combined with moisture, either in water form or high humidity.
- Exposure to microscopic mold spores can provoke allergic reactions, especially for asthmatic people or persons who have weak respiratory systems. Even a healthy individual’s defense immunization system can be lowered, causing one to get sick.
- Mold inhibitors may be added to paint before painting to reduce the potential for mold growth.
Health Risks Of Mold Exposure
Here are some allergic reactions that you can experience when you are affected by mold spores:
- Airway inflammation
- A sore throat
- Chest tightness
- Coughing
- Itchy eyes
- Long-standing or frequent sinusitis
- Nasal congestion
- Rash
- Redness of the eyes
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Wheezing/Shortness of breath
Mold Control and Prevention
Bathroom Areas: shower, bathtub, sink, and toilet
- Basically, parts of the bathroom that are wet, warm, and are poorly ventilated are perfect habitats for mold, such as showers, bathtubs, toilets, and sinks, even if not in use.
- Keep all surfaces dry and clean, especially after use. Keep the exhaust fan running for at least thirty minutes after using the bathroom, or use a dehumidifier.
Kitchen Areas: Kitchen sink, pantry and kitchen appliances (fridge, microwave, oven, stove, and garbage disposal)
- Unwashed dishes, leftover food, overly used sponges, damp kitchen pans beneath the sink, food spillages with grease on microwaves and stoves, and garbage disposals can cater mold growth.
- Kitchen mold prevention can be done by religiously keeping the kitchen clean, tidy, organized, free from moisture and drips, and well-ventilated.
Bedroom Areas and Living Rooms: Air conditioners, heating systems, and windows
- Indoor areas are also vulnerable and humidity is a major factor, especially for windows and air conditioners where temperatures are unpredictable and uncontrollable.
Contact Us for Mold Remediation in Clearwater, Florida
Checking for mold all over the house can be tedious, but most people don’t realize how important it is to keep a house mold-free. You can be free from mold sickness and can prevent future damages.
If you need professional help with mold inspection or remediation in Pinellas County, Florida, hire ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief by calling (813) 295-7797. You may also connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
- Over 30 years of experience
- IICRC-certified firm
- 24/7 Emergency Service available
- Advanced technology and equipment
- Licensed and fully bonded technicians
We service Oldsmar, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Pinellas Park, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, and Safety Harbor, Florida and the surrounding areas.
