Mold can damage your building and affect the health of occupants. Better to fix this problem as
soon as possible
soon as possible
Molds are part of a wide variety of microorganisms that include fungi and yeasts. They can grow and reproduce quickly, producing spores and mycelia
Mold is undesirable when it grows in homes. In US, more than 270 species have been found indoors
How does mold develop
Mold grows when we provide it with the moisture and nutrients it needs. If we keep our items dry, mold cannot grow
A high moisture content can be explained by
water infiltration at the floor, walls and roof
plumbing leaks
humidity from daily activities like bathing, washing clothes or cooking
In these cases, when there is not enough ventilation to extract the humidity, it accumulates inside the house
Some molds grow in the presence of high humidity, others can appear even if you do not see water
Why do we care about mold
First, because it damages the materials, which then become stained or discolored. Paper and cardboard disintegrate over time. Tissues are damaged. Mold can also reveal moisture conditions that favor the growth of fungi that rot wood and cause structural damage
When mold grows inside your home, it can cause health problems because it emits chemicals and spores
Health experts say mold can, at best, have negligible health effects or, at worst, cause allergies and disease
Pregnant women, babies, the elderly, and those with health conditions such as respiratory problems or a weakened immune system are more at risk when exposed to mold. Consult your family doctor if you think this is the case for someone close to you
?What does mold smell like
Hidden or invisible molds often manifest themselves as musty or earthy, but remember that not all of them have smell
Even if there is no odor, water stains, a moist surface or signs of water leakage indicate humidity problems that favor the appearance of mold
When should you call a specialist
A specialist should be used if
there is a lot of mold
the house is very humid
the mold returned, despite several cleanings
a family member suffers from asthma, breathing or other problems, which seem to get worse inside the home