What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
“Many people are aware that water damage in buildings leads to a variety of bad outcomes. Water-impacted building materials and contents provide an environment where a variety of organisms can flourish. Bacteria, fungus, and even viruses can not only survive but reproduce on damp or wet materials. Obviously, being exposed to such organisms can potentially contribute to health problems for the occupants. Numerous national and international agencies (including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, Britain’s National Health Service, and many others) have put out information warning of the possible ill health effects from occupying damp and moldy environments.” (Michael Pinto, The Mystery of Mycotoxins in Mold Contamination)
“I was a patient of Dr. Cheney’s before the “Yuppie Flu” went through and dropped a bunch of us in our tracks. Guess what my complaint was? “Chronic Fatigue.” I told Dr. Cheney, “I have an inexorably increasing reactivity to mold that gets progressively worse no matter where I live or how well I take care of myself.” This is what brought me to Dr. Cheney’s office in Carnelian Bay in early 1984. So I was reactive to mold prior to CFS. Afterwards my reactivity was absolutely life threatening. Prior to the weird flu, my problems would have been adequately described as inexplicable fatigue….eventually the sensation turned into life-destroying godawful drop-dead neurological living death illness that was nothing like fatigue. My susceptibility to mold was prior, not later as is automatically assumed. I thought that it was more than coincidental that this same mold that has such an effect on me showed up so often in clusters of CFS – especially the one that started it all, at my old high school. Interesting how Dr. Shoemakerʼs “24%” HLA genotype is suggestive of the “25% ME group.” (Erik Johnson, The Role of Toxic Mold in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
One of the core goals of Mold B Gone is to create awareness of mold and the potential health impact it can have.
To date, we have written several articles on the connection between mold and illness.
Listed below are some of our most popular articles:
The purpose of this article is to explore the topic of mold and health further by examining the link between mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome!
Top 10 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Facts and Stats
Top 10 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Facts and Stats
Chronic fatigue syndrome – now very often referred to as ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) – has been widely studied over the past 25 years
ME/CFS is a debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and that may be worsened by physical or mental activity.
The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, although there are many theories, ranging from viral infections to psychological stress. Some experts believe chronic fatigue syndrome might be triggered by a combination of factors including infections (particularly by viruses), oxidative stress, immune aberrations and toxic exposures, among others.
No single cause has been confirmed to fully explain ME/CFS.
There is no single test to confirm a diagnosis of ME/CFS.
ME/CFS patients remain chronically ill despite varying attempts at treatment.
An estimated one to 2.5 million Americans are thought to suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), but the vast majority of them are undiagnosed.
ME/CFS occurs more often in women than men and is less common among children and adolescents.
The CDC website suggests that treatments for the disease may include drugs (antidepressants and sleeping pills), psychological counseling and graded exercise.
Nutritional supplements such as Ubiquinol (the reduced form of CoQ10; one of the strongest lipid-soluble antioxidants known that is produced within your own body); D-ribose (a core building block of ATP); and Glutathione (one of your body’s most important antioxidants and a natural detox agent) may also help ME/CFS patients recover their energy.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms
According to the CDC website, there are 12 symptoms associated with ME/CFS.
Extreme fatigue and weakness, difficulty maintaining upright posture, dizziness, balance problems, and fainting.
Post-exertional malaise, lasting 24 hours or longer.
Muscle and joint aches and pains.
Sore throat, swollen glands, and periodic fevers and chills.
Chronic headaches.
Numbness and tingling of the extremities.
Brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and/or lack of concentration.
Insomnia, and/or unrefreshing sleep, night sweats.
Visual disturbances (blurring, light sensitivity, and eye pain).
Gastrointestinal disturbances.
Allergies and sensitivities to foods, odors, chemicals, and medications.
Irritability, depression, and mood swings.
Could Mold Be The Cause of ME/CFS?
Could Mold Be The Cause of CFS?
To date, no cause has been identified for ME/CFS. In addition, many patients suggest that the treatments recommended for the disease are not helpful or even can make them worse. At best, research suggests that they are only mildly helpful and clearly not a long-term solution for those suffering from ME/CFS.
Upon review of the symptoms, it is apparent that there are many similarities with the symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
As discussed in a previous article, 25% of the population have a genetic susceptibility to CIRS which is characterized by 37 symptoms: fatigue and weakness; aches, pains, and muscle cramps; respiratory issues (cough, trouble breathing, and sinus problems); headaches; numbness and tingling; focus/concentration issues, confusion, and mood swings; sleeping troubles caused by night sweats; visual problems, including sensitivity to light and blurring vision; diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems; and allergic reactions.
Could this possibly mean that individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS are actually suffering from CIRS because they have a genetic predisposition to mold illness?
If this is the case, then one of the key causes of ME/CFS could be mold.
Research backs this hypothesis!
Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
“When sufficient moisture is available, hundreds of species of bacteria and fungi – particularly mould – pollute indoor air. The most important effects of exposure to these pollutants are the increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms, allergies, and asthma, as well as disturbance of the immune system. Preventing (or minimizing) persistent dampness and microbial growth on interior surfaces and building structures is the most important means of avoiding harmful effects on health.”
In layman’s terms, in this 228 page document, the WHO clearly argues that WDB pose a health threat to occupants.
According to Kristine Allcroft, Ph.D, the 9 most common causes of mold growth in WDB’s are the following:
Leaking roof causing moisture in the attic.
Improper ventilation in the attic trapping moisture in the eves and insulation.
Poor ventilation in the bathroom trapping moisture allowing mold to grow on the walls.
Leaking seals around windows allowing storm water to be trapped inside the walls.
Leaking plumbing in bathrooms. Sometimes the leaks are so slow that the only indication of a problem is when mold shows up!
Leaking water supply lines to washing machines.
Leaking dishwasher supply lines or drain lines in the kitchen. Leaking ice maker supply lines.
Poor grading from landscaping allowing water to drain toward and into the home instead of away from the home.
One of the most common causes of mold growth happens when a burst pipe causes water damage in the home and it’s not dried quickly enough.
One of the key problems for individuals working or living in a WDB is that they will be exposed to mycotoxins. Mycotoxins, also known as secondary metabolites are chemical compounds that are produced by fungi during their growth cycle. The suffix toxin is used because a great number of these mold-produced chemicals have been proven to be poisonous to both insects and animals—including people.
In 2013, researchers, Joseph H. Brewer, Jack D. Thrasher, David C. Straus, Roberta A. Madison, and Dennis Hooper explored the connection between mycotoxins and CFS, to determine if mold could possibly be the cause. Their study concluded:
Over the past 20 years, exposure to mycotoxin producing mold has been recognized as a significant health risk. Scientific literature has demonstrated mycotoxins as possible causes of human disease in water-damaged buildings (WDB). This study was conducted to determine if selected mycotoxins could be identified in human urine from patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Patients with a prior diagnosis of CFS were evaluated for mold exposure and the presence of mycotoxins in their urine. Urine was tested for aflatoxins (AT), ochratoxin A (OTA) and macrocyclic trichothecenes (MT) using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA). Urine specimens from 104 of 112 patients (93%) were positive for at least one mycotoxin (one in the equivocal range). Almost 30% of the cases had more than one mycotoxin present. OTA was the most prevalent mycotoxin detected (83%) with MT as the next most common (44%). Exposure histories indicated current and/or past exposure to WDB in over 90% of cases.
Key conclusions from the study:
93% of the ME/CFS patients tested had mycotoxins in their bodies. If you have been diagnosed with ME/CFS, you may want to have your urine checked for the presence of mycotoxins
90% of the ME/CFS patients tested, were exposed to or are currently living in a Water Damaged Building. If you have been diagnosed with ME/CFS and your test proves positive for mycotoxins, then you likely have lived or are living in a WDB.
Concluding Thoughts On The Link Between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Mold
Concluding Thoughts On The Link Between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Mold
Since the modes of activity of trichothecenes differ from aflatoxins and other mycotoxins, the combinations of mycotoxins could be additive or even synergistic, which could significantly reduce the amount of either mycotoxin required to induce an immunosuppressive or toxic effect. Immunosuppressive and combinational effects of multiple mycotoxins may constitute major components in the adverse health effects reported by many of the victims of mold exposure. (A risk assessment model for mycotoxin-producing molds on human health in indoor environments)
Considering the similarity of symptoms between those suffering from ME/CFS and those suffering from CIRS, it is likely that many individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS may have been exposed to mycotoxins produced by mold growth.
If you have been diagnosed with ME/CFS, one of the first proactive actions you can take is to find out if you have mycotoxins in your body. If you do, then your current exposure to mold in a WDB or previous history of living in a WDB could be the cause.
If you are unsure of whether or not your home is water damaged and has mold, contact Mold B Gone and we can determine if you have mold and the cause of your mold growth.
If you do have mold and you test positive for mycotoxins in your body, there are two key actions you must take.
First, you should consult with an environmental physician that knows how to treat individuals sick from mold and mycotoxin exposure. If you live in the Atlanta metropolitan area, call us, 678-697-6267, because we can refer you to a physician that treats mold sensitized patients.
Second, if you are currently living in a WDB property, the source of the mycotoxin exposure has to be removed. This is very important because professional mold remediation is essential to preventing the symptoms of mold sickness and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome from coming back when your medical treatment has been completed.
Got Mold Questions?
If you have recently been diagnosed with ME/CFS and suspect that mold may be the cause, please call us, 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail. We have mold sensitized training and empathize with your situation. Mold B Gone has removed mold from 1000s of homes and we specialize in serving the needs of mold sensitized individuals.
Article Sources
In addition to the resources listed below, I would like to thank Lisa Petrison, Ph.D, for her suggestions and comments!
Top 5 Reasons Your Crawl Space Needs A Vapor Barrier!
Top 5 Reasons Your Crawl Space Needs A Vapor Barrier
Mold B Gone are crawl space mold removal and crawl space encapsulation professionals. We have been serving the Atlanta metropolitan area since 2009, performing 1000s of jobs.
One of the most common problems we encounter ismold in crawl spaces. The purpose of this article is two fold.
First, we will answer the most common questions asked about crawl spaces.
Second, we will explain why crawl space encapsulation is so important by listing and explaining the top 5 reasons your crawl space needs a vapor barrier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crawl Spaces!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crawl Spaces!
If you look into your crawl space, you may notice standing water, moldy insulation, or a bad smell. Listed below are the top questions we encounter about crawl spaces.
1. Why Does My Crawl Space Get Wet?
Your crawl space could be wet for several reasons:
Cracks in the foundation or walls allow water and moisture to enter your crawl space.
Improper ventilation can allow moisture in.
Poor drainage systems also allow moisture and water in.
Poor maintenance and not sealing the dirt floor is another common reason your crawl space is wet or damp.
2. Why Should I Be Concerned About A Wet Crawl Space?
There are two key problems caused by wet or damp crawl spaces.
First, if your crawl space has standing water or is damp, this will encourage the growth of mold and mildew.
Second, the excess moisture and mold will also cause wood rot and structural deterioration.
3. Will Vents Keep My Crawl Space Dry?
No!
Unfortunately, vents will not keep your crawl space dry.
Moisture and humidity can still accumulate in your crawl space, which in turn will lead to mold and wood rot.
In addition, often times the air flow is impeded when the vents get blocked by plants or other object outside the vent. When this occurs, water that collects around the home or drips down the exterior walls can enter your crawl space creating moisture problems.
4. Can The Air In My Crawl Space Enter My Home?
Yes!
A large percentage of your home’s air, 40% or more, comes from your crawl space.
Air in your crawl space seeps up into your home through the floors, and around heating and air ducts.
The air quality of your crawl space can have a negative impact on your home if there is excess moisture and mold.
Common health issues caused by poor crawl space air include headaches, fevers, and respiratory problems.
5. What Should I Do To Keep My Crawl Space Dry?
If your crawl space is wet, the following steps must be taken.
All moisture and water must be eliminated.
Wet insulation and standing water needs to be removed.
The ventilation system must be inspected to ensure it is working efficiently. If not, it needs to be fixed.
The next step is to figure out why you have a moisture problem in the crawl space by finding and fixing any cracks, holes, leaks, or damage to the walls, ceiling, and floors.
The final step is to seal up the damaged areas and install fresh insulation, and most importantly install vapor barrier, which is explained in greater detail below.
Now that you have answers to the most common questions we encounter about crawl spaces, the remainder of this article will explain why the installation of vapor barrier is so important.
Five Reasons Your Crawl Space Needs A Vapor Barrier!
Five Reasons Your Crawl Space Needs A Vapor Barrier!
#1: Keep Moisture in the Soil!
According to the EPA, a vapor barrier will keep your home drier and is especially recommended for older homes to control dampness. In Atlanta, where humidity is a big issue, your crawl space likely has moisture and damp issues and a vapor barrier will help keep the moisture down because it will prevent moisture from escaping from the soil.
Installed correctly and spread uniformly across the soil and the the walls of your crawl space, the vapor barrier creates a barrier between moisture and your home.
#2: Prevent Ductwork from Rusting and Corroding
Most homes with crawl spaces have ductwork running underneath their home, and many have their HVAC system installed under the house as well.
It is important to keep moisture at a minimum to prevent metal from rusting and corroding.
#3: Prevent Wiring Hazards
Many crawl spaces also have wiring. Water and electricity do not mix well. Accumulation of excess moisture is a potential fire hazard and could create an unsafe environment for anyone that enters the crawl space.
#4: Keep Your Home Dry
Since excess moisture in your crawl space can enter your home through the floor boards, keeping the moisture to a minimum will also help maintain moisture levels in your home.
In addition to a damp free home, a vapor barrier will also reduce your utility bills because your air conditioner will operate more efficiently.
The risk of excess dampness and moisture in your home is mold. If your crawl space is wet and that moisture enters your home, you will not only have mold problems in the crawl space but your home.
As mentioned earlier, mold can cause health problems; moisture control is imperative in both your home and crawl space.
#5: Keep Your Crawl Space Clean
Your crawl space is an area of your home that you can potentially use for storage. In order to ensure that your crawl space is a safe and clean environment, a vapor barrier will reduce moisture and also keep the area clean and less inhabitable for rodents and insects.
If you plan to use your crawl space for other uses, such as storage, we recommend that you use a stronger and thicker barrier.
The most important role that a vapor barrier plays is keeping the moisture in the soil. At the same time, it will help maintain a cleaner and safer environment for you, should you choose to use it for storage or other uses.
Got Crawl Space Questions?
If you have questions about your crawl space, please give us a call or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂
Top 5 Ways Your Crawl Space Affects Your Home Infographic
Top 5 Ways Your Crawl Space Affects Your Home Infographic
One of the core causes of mold is high humidity levels. For this reason, your air conditioner is effective at reducing humidity levels and maintaining healthy levels of 30% to 50%. Unfortunately, your air conditioner can also be a source of mold if it is not properly maintained. The purpose of this article is to explain how your air conditioner could be a source of mold contamination and what you can do to address this problem.
The HVAC System Is Your Home’s Lungs
HVAC is an abbreviation for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. The purpose of the HVAC system is to provide healthy indoor air quality by removing moisture, odors, smoke, heat, dust, airborne bacteria, and carbon dioxide, and replace it with clean air.
Ventilation is the most important component of your HVAC system because it’s main purpose is to circulate the air within the home and ideally is constantly introducing outside air into the system. The duct work in the HVAC system enables it to circulate the air throughout the whole home. Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is essential to ensuring that your indoor air quality is optimal.
Failure to replace filters is the number one error that home owners make. Filters need to be replaced consistently because they prevent pollen, pesticides, and other pollutants from entering the home. Once pollutants, dust, and other debris get into the duct work, mold can begin to grow because it now has a food source. Mold will only begin to grow if there is moisture. Once mold spores enter the air conditioning system, alternating high and low humidity conditions will help grow, spread, and distribute the spores throughout the house.
The HVAC System Is Your Home’s Lungs
Illnesses Caused By Air Conditioning Mold
Health signs that you could have mold in your AC unit include the following:
Many of these symptoms are also associated with over-exposure to air conditioning which causes mucus membranes to dry out, causing colds, upper respiratory infections, dry skin, nose bleeds, and flu-like symptoms including fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and breathing difficulties.
Another potential problem caused by over-exposure to air conditioning is heat intolerance which causes discomfort when you go outside. Symptoms of heat intolerance include exhaustion, dizziness, headaches, and heat stroke. Prevent over-exposure by using a thermostat that regulates the indoor temperature, meaning the AC unit turns off when the ideal temperature is reached and turns on when the temperature goes above the ideal setting.
How Do I Verify That I Have Air Conditioning Mold?
If you are experiencing the health symptoms above and suspect that your AC unit or duct work is contaminated with mold, here are some clues to determine if you do have mold.
1. Check your vents and look for any visible mold or a musty smell in the room.
2. Take a short vacation and record your health symptoms. If you feel better when you are out of your home, then likely you have air quality concerns in your home which could be caused by mold.
3. Hire a professional mold inspector to do a complete survey of the home to find the source of contamination and determine if the home requires remediation. Also, be sure to check your crawlspace for suspect mold.
If no suspect mold is found or major moisture concerns that could be causing the mold, then a comparative air quality test can measure the relative spore count inside and outside. If the spore count is much higher inside than outside, then this could indicate that you have mold spores circulating throughout your home and you should get your AC unit and ducts checked for mold.
Removing Air Conditioning Mold
If you have mold in your AC unit, then it should be professionally cleaned. When you hire the service company, ensure that they take the following actions:
Clean the blower unit.
Use a certified and non-toxic chemical cleaner.
Use a chemical that has anti-fungi and anti-bacterial properties.
Ensure that the technician does not just clean the unit with a vacuum and brush because this simply agitates the bacteria and viruses breeding there.
We also recommend that the ducts are professionally cleaned in accordance with NADCA standards to ensure that your whole HVAC system is functioning efficiently and to prevent further spread of mold spores.
Professionals should be hired because it can be difficult to access all the parts of the air conditioning ductwork and they have the experience and training to do this properly. Further, professionals have air whips or air skippers that drive dust, dirt, mold, and other debris toward collection devices fitted with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters.
Preventing Air Conditioning Mold
Mold can be prevented in your air conditioner and HVAC system. Once you have the system professionally serviced and cleaned, these guidelines will help prevent future problems
1. Always maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% by getting a humidistat installed and set at the ideal level.
2. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations and clean or replace your unit’s air filter because these are designed to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. Failure to properly clean and replace filters will allow pollutants to build up and get caught in the filter and disperse into your indoor air.
3. Service your HVAC system every year.
4. Turn off your system and open the windows during cooler periods to bring in more fresh air. Adequate ventilation is essential to reducing indoor contaminants.
5. Install an air cleaner on your central heating and air conditioner unit to ensure a constant stream of clean air.
Consistent use of your AC is important because it reduces humidity levels which is moisture that mold needs to thrive. However, like any household appliance, you need to properly service and maintain your AC unit to ensure that it is operating efficiently and does not become a source of indoor contamination. Preventative maintenance is the key.
These symptoms could be caused by the air you are breathing.
Our Indoor Air Quality Testing
We use OSHA, NIOSHA, and EPA testing procedures to investigate indoor air quality complaints or give you a profile of your air.
Hundreds of compounds can be tested for including gases, chemicals, dust, and biological samples.
We take special care in instruments calibration and sample handling to produce accurate and reliable results.
Our results are compared with controlled samples to ensure accurate data.
We offer services for both residential and business customers.
Mold Testing
Mold testing is done by taking air samples and comparing inside and outside spore numbers and can determine if a building has a high amount of mold present.
Mold and moisture testing will help assess problems by determining if high mold levels exist and if remediation work is necessary.
Mold inspections look for any areas affected by mold and moisture.
During our inspections, we take moisture reading of interior walls in the sample area to see if there is a suitable environment for mold to grow.
Our experts are trained scientists and have a background in the building construction industry.
We can relate mold data to a building and provide you with practical solutions if a problem is found.
We can identify and asses any mold problem you may have.
Environmental Consulting
Consulting services meet your special and specific environmental needs.
Risk management services are offered to help asses environmental conditions present and to help determine if action should be taken to minimize risks and exposure.
If you have not visited your crawl space, take a look. Typically, you will find the following:
Dirt. Most homeowners have a bare dirt or rock crawl space.
Ductwork. Many of your home appliances run out through the crawl space area. Washers, dryers, and plumbing pipes are often found running along the ceiling of the crawl space, to be vented or piped to the outdoors or external holding tanks. Ductwork for the home heating and cooling systems are also usually found here.
Plumbing Pipes. Home plumbing is usually found in your crawl space, funneled outside to your septic tank or the sewer system. These pipes are usually heavy duty so most homeowners are unconcerned about their safety. However, these pipes still require maintenance and care. Changes in temperature during the warmest and coldest months as water flows through them can cause condensation. Condensation and the increase of moisture in the air leads to mold growth.
Electrical Wiring. Along the ceiling and walls of the crawl space you will usually see electrical wiring. Keeping these safe from the gnawing teeth of crawl space vermin is important.
Vents. You will also notice various vents along the bottom walls of your house. These vents allow for air movement and ventilation for your crawl space.
Insulation. Insulation is important. If you see nothing but bare beams and dirt, this is a concern. Up to 40% of your air comes up from the crawl space. You can lose up to 45% of your home’s heating and cooling energy through non-insulated crawl spaces. In addition, non-insulated crawl spaces are will incur mold growth and attract insects, rodents, and other crawl space vermin.
Vapor Barrier. Vapor barriers help maintain the health of your crawl space and your family. Crawl spaces protected from excess moisture are less likely to develop mold or allow vermin and insects into your home. Vapor barriers protect not only your crawl space, but your entire home.
Beams. Beams, heavy wooden or metal support structures, keep your home structurally sound. These beams run vertically and horizontally through your crawl space structure.
Drains/Pumps. You may also notice a drain in the floor of your crawl space. Usually this is a sump pump, a water pump designed to carry any excess water away from the house in the case of a flood. Drains allow excess water to drain away a safe distance from the house, usually 6 feet or more.
Critters and Other Creepy Crawlers. It’s all too common that a homeowner pokes his head into his crawl space to discover a happy population of insects, mice, rats, squirrels, or even snakes! Getting these invaders out of your home can be challenging. To be safe, call a pest control company.
Four Clues That You Have Issues With Your Crawl Space!
While you are taking a look at your crawl space, give Mold B Gone a call if you find any of these problems:
Standing Water or Water Damage: Water damage can weaken the foundations and walls of your home, and needs to be dealt with quickly.
Mold. Mold can be hazardous. If you have large areas of mold spreading across your beams, in your insulation, or along the ground it needs to be removed. Left unchecked, mold can severely damage your home and your air quality.
Ruined Insulation: No insulation lasts forever, though some types of insulation are more long lasting than others. When insulation is falling to pieces or has rodents nesting in it, it’s time to remove the old insulation and replace it.
High Humidity: Knowing your crawl space humidity is essential to keeping it clean and safe. Vapor barriers are an important part of a crawl space because it prevents moisture and high humidity, something that creates a breeding ground for mold and pests. If you have a bare dirt floor, crawl space encapsulation is important.
Now that you understand what is in your crawl space and the top four signs that you may have issues with your crawl space, the remainder of this article will list the top 5 ways your crawl space affects your home.
#1 Poor Air Quality
Moisture accumulates in your crawl space because of high humidity, changing temperatures that leads to condensation, rainy weather, and the lack of preemptive solutions, like a vapor barrier. For this reason, it is important that the moisture content of your crawl space is monitored properly.
If the moisture content of your crawl space is not monitored, mold and rot will grow in the insulation or on the wooden beams. When the mold grows, it releases mycotoxins that can seep through the floorboards of your home, which in turn can cause sickness.
Even though the mold is growing under your home, you need to take action because 40% of the air in your home seeps up through the crawl space.
Simply put, if your crawl space has mold problems, then the indoor air quality of your home will be negatively affected.
#2 High Energy Bills
Properly insulating your crawl space will save on utility costs because the insulation prevents temperature transfers. This will ensure that your home stays cool when the air conditioner is running and warm if you need to heat your home during the colder months.
#3 Rodents and Insects
Despite the fact that your crawl space may be surrounded by a thick layer of concrete serving as the foundation, your crawl space may not be as predator-proof.
There are two key reasons that rodents and insects can affect your home.
First, droppings and feces left behind will affect the air quality inside your home.
Second, certain rodents, like squirrels will get curious and start chewing on any exposed electrical wires, ruin insulation, or rip holes in a vapor barrier.
#4 Damaged Subfloor
Moisture accumulation in your crawl space will not only affect the air quality of your home, it can also seep through the ceiling of the crawl space and damage your sub-floor. When this occurs, it will begin to warp and eventually need to repaired or replaced.
#5 Compromised Foundation
More than just the subfloor, however, moisture problems can also cause issues for the foundational level of your home. The wooden beams that hold up your home’s structure can be damaged by consistent exposure to high levels of moisture, condensation, or humidity. In some not-so-uncommon cases, crawl spaces have actually flooded, causing significant structural damage that resulted in thousands of dollars of repair work.
Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal, Mold Prevention, and Encapsulation Experts!
Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal, Mold Prevention, and Encapsulation Experts!
Top 3 Questions About Crawl Space Humidity
What’s the threshold humidity level for mold growth?
When the relative humidity of your crawl space is 70% or higher, mold can thrive.
“Relative” humidity is the humidity level expressed in a percentage of the amount of moisture in the air needed for “saturation” (i.e. the highest level of humidity – 100%).
The amount of water the air can hold (humidity level) is dependent upon the temperature of the air itself.
When the humidity level begins to creep up past 70% relative humidity, this provides the perfect environment for mold growth!
I’m seeing condensation. What does that mean?
Condensation is an indication that the air within your crawl space has reached 100%.
The air can no longer hold the moisture and it’s condensing onto the surfaces, causing the organic materials that make up your crawl space to become damp, which will result in mold growth.
How do I know when the humidity in my crawl space is at a dangerous level?
A hygrometer is a device used to measure the humidity of indoor air.
Using this tool to measure the humidity of your crawl space is a great way to monitor the amount of moisture present.
A thermo-hygrometer measures both temperature and humidity level.
These devices are even more ideal for crawl space atmosphere monitoring because the relative humidity level is contingent upon the moisture in the air in relation to the air’s temperature.
Being able to track the changes in both of these conditions in your crawl space will allow you to see trends and anticipate necessary changes.
For instance, if the weather is hot during the day but the temperature plummets at night, this can cause problems for your crawl space’s humidity levels.
The daytime temperature is higher, which allows the air to hold more moisture.
As night approaches and the air cools, the amount of moisture the air can hold also decreases – causing the relative humidity level to rise.
A crawl space that was at a permissible humidity level during the day can run into problems when night falls.
Being able to see these changes on your thermo-hygrometer can help you identify these types of trends so that you can respond appropriately.
Keep in mind that properly insulating your crawl space and installing vapor barriers will help regulate the temperature and keep moisture levels down, resulting in less fluctuations in the air’s relative humidity.
Humidity Levels In Your Crawlspace Affect The Rest Of Your Home
Having unconditioned air below your living spaces makes the whole house harder to heat and cool as well as provide the perfect damp setting for mold spores to breed.
In the past, we were told that crawlspaces needed to be ventilated. Now, however, we are learning that crawlspaces need to be treated almost as if they were living spaces. In other words, areas that are in contact with your living space affect your living space. So if you have a crawlspace, what solution is available?
Mold-B-Gone Remediation, LLC can help you dry out the dampest crawlspaces and turn them into drier, healthier foundations for your home that aren’t breeding grounds for mold spores.
Crawlspace Solutions
Turning crawlspaces into dry spaces!
Our Dry-space technique combines the following:
A thorough cleaning of the space, including mold remediation.
Installation of a wall-to-wall guide, durable, 14 mil vapor barrier.
Attachment of the vapor barrier over ground and up sidewalls to 6 inches below floor joists.
Crawlspace Encapsulation (Before and After Photos)
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The result is an energy efficient, healthy home. Mold-B-Gone Remediation, LLC’s dry space methods described above not only helps mold-proof your home, but the combination of these methods will make it more energy efficient and comfortable. For more information on our crawlspace solutions, contact us today.
