By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Barbara Lehrer
Contrary to what many people believe, mold is naturally outside and a balance of it collects right inside your home as well.
Ventilation and dryness are the key to keeping the mold count at a low. All mold needs is water, extended periods of high humidity and a food source, such as dust, dirt or porous material. When a home can breathe and is free from high humidity it can combat all sorts of issues, including mold.
Leaks from pipes, attics, windows, bathrooms and kitchens can all lead to the growth of mold if it is not dried out immediately. Umbrellas, towels and even shoes can add enough humidity to cause mold.
Your attic is a prime area of suspicion as we tend to vent bathroom fans into the attic. A misconception is that an attic fan can prevent mold. It is actually the roof vent, gable vents and soffit vents that helps with temperature differential the most. We need the attic to be colder in the winter when mold grows, and an attic fan only runs when they are triggered by heat in the summer months.
Watch for flashing leaks or gutter leaks. Anywhere moisture can get around your chimney will compromise the attic. Attic mold can weaken the roof sheathing too, compromising the structure.
Keeping your basement dry and using a humidifier consistently is key to keeping mold under close containment in the lowest level of your house. Unlike attic mold, basement mold can rise into the home, affecting breathing air and even getting into the HVAC system. Wells have a habit of sweating, so keep an eye on the basement. Monitoring your humidity can be as easy as purchasing a hygrometer for under $30.
With testing, an inspection and treatment, the mold can be eliminated. And it should be, because it can cause structural issues as well as health problems. There are mold companies that are experts at identifying mold issues and can create a game plan for removing the mold safely and effectively.
Methods to remove mold may include air scrubbing, HEPA vacuuming, encapsulating and applying disinfectants like enzymes that kill mold on the surface, sub-surface and air. Trying to remove mold yourself is tricky. Using bleach is a myth when it comes to porous surfaces. The water from the bleach actually feeds the mold in the subsurface, making it worse. The rootlike body structures of fungi, including mold, are called hyphae. Imagine pulling weeds out from your garden without pulling out the roots; it’s a similar concept.
Kitchen cabinets should be cleaned inside periodically, as well as closets, garages and sheds. Any dirt can be an attractive surface for mold spores in the air.
Any areas that can collect dampness require a self-draining dehumidifier that is capable of keeping a large area at 55 percent humidity. Buy a good one for your basement, hook it up properly and be educated.
Mold is a natural and important part of the environment. Its purpose is to decompose. You just don’t want it decomposing your home.
This is just another chapter in taking care of your property. Contact me with any concerns and I will gladly point you in the right direction.
If you need more information on these issues, email Barbara.Lehrer@cbmoves.com.