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When mold invades a home, it can be an unpleasant housemate. But mold can be more than just a trifling irritation. Its presence can cause issues ranging from minor property damage to severe health problems.
Mold, a natural part of the environment, is a class of fungi that reproduce by releasing spores into the air. These spores can spread and grow, leading to risks to health and home.
For mold to grow, it needs moisture and a food source (which can be almost any organic matter). In a typical home, mold can grow on carpet, food, insulation, paper and wood.
Here are three steps to look for mold, cut down on conditions that lead to mold, and handle mold you might find in your home.
Spot or look for mold
Not all mold is the same. Their colors can range from black and brown to pink and yellow. They may appear as just a stain without noticeable texture or they can be a fuzzy growth. One way to find out is to buy a mold test kit. Available at most building supply stores, they are simple to use and inexpensive.
Reduce mold-friendly conditions
Mold spores are everywhere. There is no way to prevent them from entering a home. What you can do, though, is deny them the moisture they need to grow.
Deal with mold if you find it
The best way to handle mold growing in your home depends on the amount and type of mold you find. If it is just a small area growing in your shower, you can kill it yourself with regular treatments of common household bleach and by keeping the area dry to prevent further growth.
If you find or suspect a hidden or large area of infestation, then consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administrations guidelines on how to clean up and permanently prevent mold. Though intended for industrial workers, its guidelines are applicable in your home. Call a professional to remediate mold for these types of mold conditions.
Mold, a natural part of the environment, is a class of fungi that reproduce by releasing spores into the air. These spores can spread and grow, leading to risks to health and home.
For mold to grow, it needs moisture and a food source (which can be almost any organic matter). In a typical home, mold can grow on carpet, food, insulation, paper and wood.
Here are three steps to look for mold, cut down on conditions that lead to mold, and handle mold you might find in your home.
Spot or look for mold
Not all mold is the same. Their colors can range from black and brown to pink and yellow. They may appear as just a stain without noticeable texture or they can be a fuzzy growth. One way to find out is to buy a mold test kit. Available at most building supply stores, they are simple to use and inexpensive.
Reduce mold-friendly conditions
Mold spores are everywhere. There is no way to prevent them from entering a home. What you can do, though, is deny them the moisture they need to grow.
- Check pipes in the roof for leaks and repair any that are found as soon as possible.
- Clean and dry any wet areas within 48 hours.
- Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to control the humidity in your home.
- Regularly check the kitchen sink, refrigerator ice makers and other sources of water for leaks.
- Empty your refrigerator drip pan.
- Increase air circulation by opening doors between rooms, using fans and moving furniture away from the corners of the room.
- Run an exhaust fan when washing dishes or cooking.
Deal with mold if you find it
The best way to handle mold growing in your home depends on the amount and type of mold you find. If it is just a small area growing in your shower, you can kill it yourself with regular treatments of common household bleach and by keeping the area dry to prevent further growth.
If you find or suspect a hidden or large area of infestation, then consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administrations guidelines on how to clean up and permanently prevent mold. Though intended for industrial workers, its guidelines are applicable in your home. Call a professional to remediate mold for these types of mold conditions.
