Mold and Your Home

November 10, 2010

Although warm, muggy air promotes the reproduction of mold, don’t discount the fall and winter months. Mold can develop in cooler, moister environments, as well. Mold can be both visible and hidden, but either way, it can present health hazards, can damage your home and should be removed as soon as possible.

Mold

Mold is a microscopic organism that reproduces by dispersing tiny spores. These spores land on other surfaces and begin to cultivate, reproduce and spread.

Leaks around plumbing fixtures, wet attics and basements, leaky roofs…all of these are catalysts for the growth of mold.

Health Hazards

People react to mold infestations in different ways. Headaches, coughing, sneezing, itchy and runny eyes, as well as dizziness are common effects. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious problems, such as respiratory difficulty and neurological issues.

Structural Hazards

Mold can also be damaging to the structure and soundness of your home. It can weaken support beams by creating moisture buildup, cause ceilings and floors to bow and create discoloring and water stains.

Mold Remediation

Mold is like termites in that left untreated, it can cause intensive damage to your home. It’s paramount to identify the infested areas and move forward with removal.

If you decide to take on the mold remediation project on your own, keep these tips in mind.

  • Adequate ventilation is necessary since harsh cleansers will be present.
  • Wear a mask and gloves at all times when dealing with mold cleanup.
  • Remove and bag any damaged components (insulation, wood, etc), and keep in mind that some areas (ventilation ducts, interior building components, etc.) may have mold on them, without it being in plain view.
  • Wash and dry thoroughly the infected areas.
  • Use a diluted bleach solution to kill remaining mold.

Professional mold removal companies have the technology, such as infrared cameras, and advanced identification and cleanup procedures to thoroughly rid your home of mold and mildew.

Maintaining the value of a home is something every homeowner should strive for, and if you’re trying to sell your home, mold problems will definitely be cause for alarm in a buyer’s mind.

If you think your Nashville area home is in need of an inspection, contact a mold remediation company or certified home inspector. Select a trustworthy professional that is recommended by a reputable Realtor. Consult Todd Taylor at email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Posted in Tennessee Living