by Mold-B-Gone | Nov 15, 2022 | Black Mold, Mold and Infants, Mold Inspection
Mold can be a severe problem in homes and businesses. Not only is the mold unsightly, but it can cause health problems for people who breathe in the spores.
One of the dangerous types of mold is black mold. Also professionally known as Stachybotrys chartarum, black mold produces mycotoxins, which can cause serious health issues.
Black mold grows in damp, humid environments and can appear as greenish-black or black spots.
Read more: What Causes Black Mold?
It’s essential to understand how fast black mold grows on concrete and other surfaces so that you take the necessary steps to prevent it from taking hold in your home or business. Black mold usually starts growing in ideal conditions in 24 to 48 hours. We will also discuss health issues with black mold and factors that influence mold growth in your home or business.
What Are the Health Issues With Black Mold?
Black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum or Stachybotrys atra, is a fungus that can cause serious health issues if left untreated. These include:
- Respiratory problems, including coughing and sneezing, asthma attacks, and chronic sinus infections.
- Eye irritation, such as burning eyes or watery eyes.
- Skin problems, with redness and itching being the most common symptoms.
- Various neurological issues, such as headaches and fatigue.
- In extreme cases, black mold can cause nausea and vomiting.
Patients with weakened immune systems, as well as infants, children, and older adults, are especially vulnerable to its effects.
Factors That Affect How Fast Black Mold Grows
Mold only needs a few essential components to grow and thrive: moisture, warmth, food source, and oxygen. Here are the factors that can affect how quickly black mold grows:
Humidity:
Mold will grow faster in moist, humid environments. High relative humidity (RH) means more moisture is available for the mold to feed off, causing it to grow faster. Places like bathrooms and basements are typically more humid, making them ideal environments for mold growth.
Temperature:
Warm temperatures help black mold reproduce quickly. The warmer the environment, the faster it will grow. Locations with higher temperatures, such as attics, will experience faster mold growth than rooms with lower temperatures.
Food Source:
Different molds require different food sources to survive. Black mold grows on organic materials like wood and paper high in cellulose. To grow faster, it needs a consistent source of these materials.
Oxygen:
Mold needs oxygen to survive and reproduce. Without it, the mold won’t be able to grow. Black mold can also reproduce anaerobically (without oxygen) in small amounts, substantially slowing its growth.
What Should You Do While Waiting for Mold Remediation Services?
If you have noticed telltale signs of black mold in your homes, such as discoloration, musty smells, and even health issues, you may:
a) Seal off the area until a mold remediation service arrives
b) Contact your insurer and file a claim
c) Increase ventilation in the affected rooms to reduce moisture levels
d) Clean up any remaining water or spills and all porous materials (like carpeting and drywall).
Contact Mold-B-Gone for expert mold inspection in Atlanta. We have a team of certified professionals available to answer any questions about mold growth, particularly black mold.
by Mold-B-Gone | Nov 8, 2022 | Uncategorized, White Mold
Mold comes in many shapes and colors, but did you know that there is a type of mold that is white? White mold, also known as Aspergillus, is a type of fungus that can cause respiratory problems. Organisms such as mold and fungus can wreak havoc in your home if left unchecked.
People often confuse white mold with mildew, which is also a type of fungus. Although white mold and mildew may look alike, they affect the body differently. Mildew is more common in wet climates, while white mold prefers warmer temperatures and high humidity levels.
Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences
Here, we will discuss what white mold is, its health effects, and how you can safely remove it from your home.
What Is White Mold?
White mold is a fungus that can grow in areas with excessive moisture and humidity. White mold looks like a white, fuzzy material and often appears on organic materials such as wood, paper, insulation, drywall, wallpaper, or other cellulose-based materials. It may also appear in damp corners of rooms or around windows and doors.
What Are the Common Causes of White Mold?
White mold is a type of fungus which thrives in damp and humid environments. Common causes of white mold can include:
a) Leaky pipes, windows, or roofs:
When there is a leak in the home, it can allow moisture to accumulate in areas that may not usually be damp. This provides an ideal environment for white mold to thrive.
b) Insufficient ventilation:
Poor air circulation and ventilation can cause excess humidity and moisture in the home. This will create an environment that is favorable for white mold to grow.
c) Flooding:
When flooding occurs, it can create a perfect environment for white mold growth.
d) Improperly maintained HVAC systems:
If the insulation and filters of an HVAC system are not regularly checked and changed, they can become saturated with moisture, creating a perfect environment for white mold.
How To Identify White Mold?
White mold is identified by its color, usually white or grayish. It can also have a powdery or fuzzy texture. Other signs of white mold include unpleasant musty odors, water spots on walls and ceilings, discolored patches on walls and floors, and black spots on wood surfaces. Efflorescence, a white powdery substance found on basement walls, indicates white mold growth.
How Does White Mold Affect Your Health?
White mold can cause various health problems, from mild symptoms like hay fever and sneezing to more severe issues such as respiratory infections and skin problems. When exposed to the spores of white mold, some people may experience allergic reactions, including runny noses, watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of white mold.
Long-term exposure can also lead to breathing problems and other illnesses. It is essential to take action as soon as you notice any signs of white mold in your home or office to prevent potential health risks.
White fluffy mold is dangerous and should be taken seriously. For expert mold removal in Atlanta, contact Mold-B-Gone Remediation Services. We have the experience and knowledge to resolve your mold concerns effectively.
by Mold-B-Gone | Oct 19, 2022 | Basement Mold, Mold and Infants, Mold Inspection
Mold can be a severe issue. It can cause health problems and damage to your property.
Basements are the perfect breeding ground for mold. The combination of darkness, moisture, and lack of ventilation creates the perfect environment for mold to grow.
Mold produces allergens that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues. In some cases, mold can even produce toxins that can harm your health.
Hence, it is essential to call mold remediation for your basement as soon as you see any signs of mold.
Read more: Health Benefits of Mold Remediation
Experts will take care of the problem quickly and efficiently to ensure your home’s safety and integrity.
We will explain what causes mold, its health risks, and how our mold remediation services can help you get rid of it for good.
What Are the Causes of Mold Growth in Basements?
1) Poor ventilation – Moisture-laden air can condense on cold surfaces, leading to mold growth.
2) Water leaks – Leaks from pipes, foundation cracks, or other sources can introduce moisture into the basement, promoting mold growth.
3) Flooding – Basements are susceptible to flooding, leading to mold problems.
What Are the Health Effects of Mold?
1) Mold can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing, or wheezing.
2) People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have more intense reactions.
3) Mold exposure can lead to inflammation of the airways and lungs.
4) Mold exposure is linked to neurological conditions and illnesses, including memory loss and depression.
How To Identify the Different Types of Mold?
1) Black Mold
These fungi are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. They thrive in places with high humidity or water leaks. They are also mildew and can cause many respiratory problems if inhaled.
2) White Mold
This type of mold is often found in food like bread, cheese, and fruits. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
3) Toxic Mold
This is the most dangerous type of mold as it can release mycotoxins into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems.
How Do Experts Help With Mold Removal from Basements?
1. Identify the Location and Extent of Mold Growth
This will help determine the best way to remove the mold.
2. Contain the Mold
Containing will prevent it from spreading to other areas of your home. This can be done by establishing a physical barrier, such as using negative pressure to keep mold spores from traveling through the air or using natural barriers like plants.
3. Eliminate the Source of Moisture
Mold needs water to grow, so eliminating the source of moisture is essential to preventing it from returning. This can be done by fixing leaks, increasing ventilation, or using a dehumidifier.
4. Remove the Mold
Once the mold has been contained and the source of moisture eliminated, the mold can be removed. This can be done through cleaning, sanding, and HEPA vacuuming.
5. Clean the Affected Area
After removing the mold, the area should be cleaned with soap and water. Any porous materials that have been affected by mold should be thrown away.
If you are searching for a mold specialist in Atlanta, contact Mold B Gone. We will come to your home and inspect for mold. Our process is simple: we find the mold, we kill the mold, and we remove the mold. We also offer a warranty on all of our work.
by Mold-B-Gone | Oct 12, 2022 | Black Mold
Mold is found in many households in the U.S., and while it can be unsightly, it’s usually not a cause for alarm. It is a fungus commonly found in damp areas and can cause serious health problems if left unchecked. The primary difference between mold and fungus is that mold is green or black, while fungus can be any color.
Also, a fungus is composed of microscopic spores, while a mold is composed of filaments. The fungus typically grows on food or soil, while mold usually grows on damp surfaces.
Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences
Black mold can be black, green, or brown. It’s often found in damp areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. If left unchecked, black mold can cause serious health problems.
Read on to learn about black mold and its dangers.
What Is Black Mold?
Black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a mold that thrives in damp, dark environments. It’s often found in homes and buildings damaged by water or flooding. Black mold can cause serious health problems, including respiratory illness, neurological damage, and even death.
Signs of a Black Mold Infestation in Your Home
1) Visible Mold Growth
You can find black mold anywhere in your home where there is moisture, such as in damp basements, showers, or leaky pipes. The mold may appear as black specks, streaks, or blotches and can quickly spread if not removed.
2) Musty Odors
Black mold emits a gas called mycotoxin, which smells musty. If you notice this musty smell, it’s essential to investigate further to see if mold is present.
3) Respiratory Problems
When inhaled, black mold can cause several respiratory problems, including:
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Bronchitis
- Inflammation of the lungs
- In severe cases, black mold inhalation can even lead to death.
How To Prevent or Get Rid of Black Mold: Tips
1) Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is key to preventing the growth of mold. Be sure to ventilate any areas in your home prone to moisture, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows to help circulate air and keep these areas dry.
2) Humidity
Mold thrives in humid environments, so it’s essential to keep the humidity level in your home low. Use a dehumidifier to help remove excess moisture from the air.
3) Water Damage
One of the most common ways mold enters the home is through water damage. If your home has experienced flooding or a leak, dry the area thoroughly and repair any damage to prevent mold from growing.
4) Cleaning
A good cleaning routine is essential for preventing the growth of mold. Be sure to clean any areas of your home prone to moisture, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Use a mild detergent and water to clean these areas
5) Mold-resistant products
Many products, like paints, caulk, sealants, etc., have mold-resistant features. You can use these products in areas more prone to moisture and susceptible to black mold growth.
While black mold may not be as toxic as other types of mold, it can still pose serious health risks. Exposure to black mold can cause several respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
You may wonder if cleaning or removing black mold is safe. It is better to call experts for mold removal in Atlanta, like Mold B Gone. We use the best EPA-registered products, and our approach is always efficient and effective.
by Mold-B-Gone | Oct 4, 2022 | Mold and Infants, Mold Inspection
23-year-old Juliana, from New South Wales, Australia, had to be evicted from her home after authorities condemned it. The cause? A rampant mold infestation caused by a year of damp, wet weather.
“It’s really disgusting,” she told to NCA NewsWire. “It started out just in the corners of our bedrooms and living area, but at this point it’s taken over most of the walls and roofing spaces. Even after multiple attempts to remove it, it keeps growing back thicker and in new spots.”
Juliana and her two roommates were all affected. The mold spread to their personal belongings and may be the cause of a mysterious illness.
“Both of my roommates have been sick for the past six months with no explanation – a constant cough and runny nose,” Juliana said. “We’re pretty certain this is from the mold growing in their bedrooms.”
Even though they tried to deal with it themselves, the constant rain and damp weather created the perfect conditions for the mold to re-emerge. Their landlord stepped in to try and deal with the problem, but it was to no avail.
Ultimately, the three housemates had to leave the home because it was condemned.
She’s not the only one that has been dealing with mold. People living in places like Georgia, with humid climates and damp winters, are at increased risk of mold in their homes.
What Are The Signs of Mold In My Home?
Mold development can be concealed. Mold may develop behind walls or above ceiling tiles. Therefore, inspecting for mold in any wet area is critical, especially if water damage has occurred.
Begin by performing a visual survey of your home. Look for stains or discoloration on floors, walls, window panes, ceiling tiles, textiles, and carpets that indicate mold or excessive moisture. Examine the area for evident leaks, dampness, floods, or a musty stench. If you detect anything strange, take immediate action!
How Can I Remove Mold From My Home?
Do not attempt to remove mold yourself. Although mold seems simple to kill, it is not simple to eliminate. One mold spore can spawn a huge infestation quickly. Many landlords and homeowners are tempted to remove mold by themselves to save on costs. However, the risk is much greater than the initial cost of mold remediation and is seldom done correctly. If the mold gets out of control, you might need to have your home demolished like Juliana’s home was.
We recommend hiring the most trusted professional in your area. If you’re in or around Atlanta, Mold-B-Gone is an excellent choice.
Mold-B-Gone: Atlanta’s Mold Remediation Experts
Our highly skilled team of certified mold removal experts specializes in whole-house cleaning. We have done mold removal services for thousands of homes and companies in Atlanta over the years and never failed a test on any house or commercial structure. Since we opened our doors, we have had a 100% rating for our mold cleaning service in Atlanta. Give us a call at (470) 545-4467 today!
by Mold-B-Gone | Sep 20, 2022 | Green Mold, Mold Facts
Mold is a fungus that can grow almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material. In some cases, it can be dangerous to your health. According to EPA, mold can cause a variety of respiratory problems, as well as skin irritation. Taking action immediately is essential if you think you have mold in a home.
The first step is to identify the type of mold you’re dealing with. Many of us do not know the difference between mold and fungus. Mold is a fungus that can grow on wet surfaces. It’s often green, black, or white. On the other hand, the fungus is a plant-like organism that feeds on organic matter.
Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences.
One of the dangerous forms of mold is green in color. Green mold is also known by its scientific name, Stachybotrys chartarum. This mold is often found in damp or water-damaged areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Read on to understand green mold, its dangers, and how to get rid of it.
What Is a Green Mold?
Green mold is fungi that can grow indoors and outdoors. It thrives in moist, warm environments and can often be found in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and on or around building materials that have been water damaged. Green mold can also be found in food that has gone bad.
While green mold is not necessarily more dangerous than other types of mold, it can cause health problems for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. Green mold can also cause damage to the material it is growing on.
For example, wooden beams or drywall covered in the green mold may need to be replaced.
If you think you have green mold in your home or business, it is essential to have it removed by a professional as soon as possible.
Tips and Tricks By Professionals to Remove Green Mold
1. Identify the Source of Green Mold
It is probably the most critical step as you need to know where the mold is coming from to remove it properly. Some familiar places for mold growth are leaky pipes, windows, or roofs; condensation on cooling coils of air conditioners; and damp basements or crawlspaces. You should also check for any water damage, as this can be a breeding ground for mold spores.
2. Isolate Affected Areas
After identifying and locating the source of green mold, isolate all affected areas so that the spores do not spread. You can do it by sealing off the rooms with plastic sheeting and using a HEPA filter. Experts wear proper protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and respirators while handling moldy materials.
3. Ventilate Your Home
Open your windows and allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home to help dry out any affected areas. The more quickly you can dry out these areas, the less likely new mold will grow.
4. Use a Commercial Mold Removal Product or Solution
These contain chemicals that can kill mold and mildew.
5. Remove All Material That May Have Been Affected by Mold
Any material in your home that has been affected by green mold (e.g., drywall, insulation, carpeting) needs to be removed and replaced. This is because cleaning and disinfecting these materials will be challenging, and they may continue to harbor mold spores even after you’ve removed the visible mold growth.
Contact Mold-B-Gone for the mold removal company in Atlanta. We are experts in mold remediation and will get rid of your green mold problem quickly and efficiently.
by Mold-B-Gone | Sep 6, 2022 | Mold Facts, Mold in Wood
Mold spores in the air are inevitable, and so is the mold growing on your wood furniture. No matter how often you clean or how well you ventilate your home, there will always be a few spores that slip through and take root in the dampest corners of your house.
Read more: 7 Places Mold Hides In Your Home!
Wooden furniture is especially susceptible to mold growth because they are often kept in humid environments. The good news is that mold on wood furniture is relatively easy to remove, as long as you take the necessary precautions.
Here are a few tips and tricks for removing mold from wood furniture:
1. Identify the Source of Moisture
There are different sources of moisture that can cause mold to grow on wood. These include:
- leaks in the roof or walls
- high humidity levels
- flooding
- damp basements or crawl spaces
If you can identify and fix the source of moisture, this will help to prevent mold from growing back.
2. Use a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is a way to remove mold from unfinished wood and cabinets. If the humidity in your home is too high, it can create the perfect environment for mold to grow. Using a dehumidifier can lower the humidity levels and make your home less hospitable for mold.
It is a machine that helps to remove water from the air. Dehumidifiers can be used in many settings, such as during construction, flooding, or high humidity levels.
There are two types of dehumidifiers: desiccant and refrigerant.
- Desiccant dehumidifiers work by absorbing moisture from the air.
- Refrigerant dehumidifiers work by cooling the air and condensing the water vapor.
3. Open Windows and Doors To Allow for Air Circulation
Mold growth is often the result of stagnant, humid air. Allowing fresh air to circulate throughout your home is essential for preventing mold growth and removing existing mold. If possible, open windows and doors to create a cross breeze and improve airflow. You can use fans to help circulate the air in your home.
4. Vacuum the Furniture
Vacuuming is the first step in mold remediation. Use a HEPA filter to avoid spreading spores while you vacuum. If you don’t have a HEPA filter, seal the bag after each use to prevent spores from escaping.
Use a brush attachment to vacuum moldy areas. If the mold has penetrated deep into the wood, you may need to sand the affected area before vacuuming.
After vacuuming, use a damp cloth to wipe down the furniture. This will remove any mold spores that are left behind.
5. Mix Vinegar and Water for Cleaning
The best cleaning solution for white mold on wood is a mix of vinegar and water. Use equal parts vinegar and water; if you’re using distilled white vinegar, use one part vinegar to four parts water.
This natural solution is safe for people and pets and effectively cleans mold off wood surfaces. Apply the mixture to the affected area with a sponge or cloth and scrub until the mold is gone.
6. Sand the Wood
Sandpaper is a great way to remove mold from wood. Be sure to sand in the grain direction to avoid damaging the wood. If you are searching for a mold removal specialist in Atlanta, contact Mold-B-Gone. Our highly trained professionals are experts in mold removal and will work diligently to rid your home of mold.
by Mold-B-Gone | Aug 23, 2022 | Killing Mold, Mold Facts
Amie Skilton from Australia was 37 years old when she moved into an apartment with her now-husband. She was perfectly healthy: she traveled around the country giving keynote speeches, did “fun runs”, and worked as a naturopath and nutritionist.
Then she started to get sick. She noticed allergy symptoms, she gained over 20 pounds, and she started getting chronic fatigue. Amie even started to forget her own name.
Shaken and puzzled, her now-husband took her to the doctor’s office, where they performed a battery of tests. All the tests came back fine, stunning the doctors.
She was referred to a neurologist who later diagnosed her with Type III Alzheimer’s. Type III Alzheimer’s disease is also known as inhalational Alzheimer’s and is caused by airborne toxins.
Amie had a mold expert check her home and found that the underside of the carpet was lined with black mold. This mold grew after a pipe leaked and soaked the carpet, and Amie didn’t know about it until she was already sick. Luckily, after moving out of the apartment, her brain function returned to normal. But who knows what could have happened to Amie if it had gone unchecked?
Today, Amie is a qualified mold testing technician in her native Australia who educates others about the dangers of mold.
The Dangers of Black Mold
Toxic black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, grows in wet conditions under the carpet, drywall, and flooring. They produce highly poisonous spores that can cause respiratory illness and fatigue. But not everyone is affected equally.
In Amie’s case, her genetic predisposition caused a severe reaction to mold spores. Just as some people are intolerant to lactose or gluten, some people are strongly affected by toxic mold spores. Most people won’t know until it’s too late.
What To Do About Black Mold In The Home
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The best way to deal with black mold in the home is to prevent it from growing in the first place. Water damage is usually the cause, and it’s best to call a specialist immediately if a leak is ever found.
Another cause of mold growth is a high level of humidity in the home. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth. Keep humidity levels between 30% and 50% in the home, and check your humidity levels with a meter. A single room might be more humid than others; if that’s the case, a dehumidifier can help. If you’re having persistent issues with humidity in your home, call an HVAC specialist.
The truth about black mold is that once it’s found in a home, it needs to be removed by a professional. Professional mold remediation experts have the tools necessary to remove black mold and prevent it from causing further health issues. Otherwise, it’s best to move to a clean home if you find black mold.
Mold Remediation in Atlanta
25% of the human population has a genetic predisposition to mold-related illness, and most people don’t take the chance: keep your family safe with mold remediation in Atlanta by Mold-B-Gone.
Mold-B-Gone is the premier mold remediation company in Atlanta, specializing in whole-house mold removal. We clear mold caused by water damage and humidity. 100% of our client’s homes have passed a mold inspection in Atlanta after working with us. Best of all, we offer a 5-year written guarantee on all mold removal services.
Speak to a mold removal expert today; call 470-545-4467 and enjoy peace of mind knowing your family is safe.
Read Amie Skilton’s full New York Post story here.
by Mold-B-Gone | Aug 16, 2022 | Mold Facts
Mold growth is a common problem in many homes and buildings. While most mold is not harmful, some types of mold can produce toxins that can cause health problems. The most common indoor molds are Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus. These molds are often found on wet surfaces, such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. Research by the National Library of Medicine states that around 50 percent of US homes have water damage which leads to mold infestation.
Mold exposure can cause various health problems, including respiratory problems, headaches, skin rash, and fatigue. Some people are also sensitive to mold and may experience more severe reactions, such as fever, shortness of breath, and digestive problems.
How Does Mold Affect Your Gut Health?
Mold can be ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with your skin. Once mold spores enter your body, they can travel to any organ and begin to grow. However, most mold exposure occurs through inhalation.
Mold contains mycotoxins, poisonous substances that can damage your gut health.
Mycotoxins contain harmful toxins like aflatoxin, ochratoxin, and trichothecenes. These toxins can cause inflammation in your gut.
You may experience symptoms like:
- abdominal pain
- bloating
- diarrhea
- constipation
- nausea
- vomiting
Read this article: How Do I Know If I’m Allergic To Mold?
How Is Mold Infection in the Digestive System Detected?
Mold infection in the digestive system is often difficult to detect. The first step in diagnosis is usually a physical examination and medical history. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and any possible mold exposure. They may also order blood tests or other laboratory tests to look for evidence of mold infection. A stool sample may also be taken to look for mold spores or other evidence of infection.
In some cases, an endoscopy or colonoscopy may be necessary to visualize the digestive system directly for evidence of mold infection. If you have been exposed to mold and have symptoms of a digestive system infection, you must see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Is Mold Infection in the Stomach Treated?
1. Antibiotics: for mold infection in the stomach, the first line of treatment is typically antibiotics—these work to kill off the harmful bacteria causing the infection.
2. Probiotics: These are live, beneficial bacteria that help keep your gut healthy. They are found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, as well as in supplements. Probiotics can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
3. Digestive enzymes: These proteins help your body break down food. They are found in raw fruits and vegetables, as well as in supplements. Digestive enzymes can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
For expert mold inspection in Atlanta, contact Mold-B-Gone. “We will make sure your home is safe from harmful mold with our comprehensive mold testing and remediation services.
To know more about mold effects on the body, read our blog: What Impact Does Mold Have On The Brain?”
by Mold-B-Gone | Aug 2, 2022 | Mold Facts
Mold is a fungus that can grow almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material. It thrives in humid environments and can cause health problems in people exposed to it.
CDC reports that mold exposure can cause various respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It will cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Mold spores are tiny and can be carried by the wind or water so that they can spread quickly. Many believe mold dies when it dries out, but that is not the case. Mold can survive in both dry and wet conditions.
Read on to understand mold and how to prevent it from growing in your home.
How Does Mold Grow in Homes?
Mold typically enters homes through open doors, windows, or vents. Once inside, it can quickly begin to grow and spread. Mold loves damp, dark, and humid environments, so bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms are often ideal spots for mold growth. Leaky pipes or roofs can also create the perfect conditions for mold to thrive.
When the indoor humidity levels are high, mold can grow on various surfaces, including wood, carpet, paper, and food. Mold can also grow on dust, lint, or fabric fibers.
What Happens When Mold Spores Lack Moisture?
Mold spores need moisture to grow and multiply, but they can remain dormant for years without it. When mold spores land on a moist surface, they begin to reproduce. The new mold colony then produces more spores carried away by the wind or water droplets to start new colonies elsewhere.
So what happens when mold spores are deprived of moisture? They don’t die, but they do become inactive. If the conditions that caused the mold growth in the first place are no longer present, the spores will remain dormant until they once again come into contact with water or high humidity.
Some mold spores are more resistant to drying out than others, which is why mold can often return after removal. It’s essential to address the underlying moisture problem to prevent mold from returning.
Read more: 10 Facts About Mold People Did Not Know.
Is Completely Dried Mold Safe?
Once the mold is completely dried, they become light in weight and fragile. They can spread through the air very quickly. It can easily contaminate other areas and items.
For example, black mold is a type of mold that can release toxins called mycotoxins. These toxins can cause serious health problems in humans, especially in young children and the elderly.
Expert Methods for Mold Removal
Insulate the area: One of the most important things you can do to prevent mold is to insulate your home. It will help to keep moisture out and prevent condensation from building up.
Use a dehumidifier: By keeping the air in your home dry, you can also prevent mold from growing. Dehumidifiers help to remove moisture from the air, which can then be drained away.
Keep the area clean: mold loves to grow in dark, damp, and cluttered areas. So by keeping a home clean and free of clutter, you can help to prevent mold from growing.
Contact Mold-B-Gone for expert mold removal service in Atlanta. “We are experts in mold remediation and will ensure your home is mold-free.
For more information on mold, read our blog:- 7 Types of Mold You Might Encounter in Your House.