Homeownership is a huge responsibility because you must ensure it is clean to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria, which can lead to health problems. This also applies to mold spores.
Mold spores are microscopic fungi that are naturally present in the environment and can grow on walls, ceilings, and floors. Mold spores can develop into mold piles that can cause various health problems, such as respiratory issues, asthma, and allergic reactions. By extension, mold can also cause damage to your home, which is hard to eliminate because mold spores can spread quickly and easily. To help you with this, we will discuss the details in this article.
How Do Mold Spores Form?
Molds reproduce by dispersing spores into the air. Depending on the type of mold and the exterior environment, the time of spore release may vary. For example, some molds release their spores in dry, windy conditions, while others do so during fog or high humidity. Generally, the greatest spores are released following heavy rain, a flood, or other water-related damage.
Mold spores are smaller than the width of a strand of human hair. They can settle on your clothing, accessories, and pets and enter your home through open windows, doors, screens, and air conditioning systems. They can also appear as tiny, lightweight particles that can drift around your home. Because of their resilience, they can withstand harsh weather conditions. Even if the environment is not suitable for them to develop, air currents can still allow them to be transferred to a much more appropriate environment. Once these spores find a moist, warm place within your home, they can create new colonies of fungi.
Mold starts to spread by sending out its long, thin, hair-like structures known as hyphae. These structures act like the roots of a plant, allowing the mold to establish itself and grow. The hyphae spread out, covering a large area, and as they do this, they release spores which help the mold to expand further. This process repeats itself, allowing the mold to grow and spread.
Signs Your Home Has Mold
If you suspect your home has mold, you must look out for the following signs:
Smell
Mold has a distinct musty or earthy smell, so mold is likely present if you notice a damp, stale, or musty odor in your home. The scent may be most noticeable in areas where moisture accumulates, such as the basement, bathroom, or any room with poor ventilation.
Presence of Colored Spots
Colored spots on walls, floors, or furniture can often identify mold. These spots can range in color from white to green, yellow, or black. These spots may appear slimy or fuzzy and can be found in areas with moisture, such as around windows, attics, or bathrooms.
Frequent Health Issues
If you are consistently experiencing health issues and suspect mold may be the cause, there are several signs to look out for. Common symptoms of mold exposure include coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, eye irritation, and skin irritation. Other more severe symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, and chest tightness, can also indicate mold exposure. If you experience any of these symptoms and believe they may be related to mold, you must get tested for mold exposure.
What You Can Do
The best way to eliminate and prevent mold growth is by controlling moisture levels in your home. Check for any water leakage or standing water and fix it immediately, and ensure to keep your home dry and well-ventilated. You can use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity levels and a fan to circulate the air.
As for mold, you should hire a professional mold remediation company to inspect and treat the affected areas. They can remove the mold using specialized equipment and techniques and help you take preventative measures to ensure it does not return.
Conclusion
Mold spores can be a massive problem, but that does not mean you have to live with them. The proper steps can eliminate and prevent them, so you can choose between DIY solutions or hiring a professional mold remediation service. All that matters is taking action immediately to prevent further growth and damage to your home.
Sentry Restoration provides top-quality services for mold remediation in Athens, GA. Our remediation specialists will ensure your space is mold-free using safe practices for fair prices. Call us today at 706-438-8840 and allow us to help you!
