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Fast Facts about Mold • Mold can be managed effectively by controlling moisture • Mold growth in the building should be removed promptly to prevent further damage • Drying off moist areas within 24 hours can avert mold growth Mold Development in a House Molds are fungi (living organisms) growing in multi-cellular forms known as hyphae. Yeast is the same as mold but exists in a single cell form. Molds are present in natural environments and are necessary to decompose dead leaves, plants and other organic matter. In homes and similar structures, molds must be avoided at all costs. They are formed via microscopic pores invisible to a human. They start growing on wet surfaces and require water for life support and ongoing existence. Mold and Health Problems Molds are viable living organisms that grow naturally in wet areas. However, indoors they can grow on wet/ moist/ damp surfaces and thrive. Molds can also cause serious health issues, such as allergies, irritation, and poisoning. In case of mold inhalation, allergic reactions can occur to sensitive people. Hay fever can develop due to exposure to mold. Its symptoms are: • Skin rash • Runny nose • Sneezing • Red eyes Mold-caused allergic reactions are commonplace. Moreover, mold can also cause breathing issues in people with asthma. Apart from that, mold can cause fresh allergies to non-allergic people. It can cause inflammation to the throat, nose, skin, lungs, and eyes. Mold Removal Mold thrives on water for its continual existence. Mold can travel in air and via house dust. Indoor molds can be controlled by limiting moisture. Wet areas should be cleaned up and dried off as mold usually forms when there is a water problem in a house, such as flooding or pipe damage. Products for Mold Removal There are various products for mold removal on the market. Some household techniques for mold removal are given as follows: • Borax • Bleach • Vinegar • Ammonia • Hydrogen peroxide • Baking soda • Detergent • Grapefruit seed extract • Tea tree oil 1. Mold Removal with Bleach Bleach is a very concentrated substance capable of removing every kind of fungi. It leaves the mold-infested surface clean and without mold in the future. Bleach releases pungent fumes when applied to moist spots and it is advised to ventilate the house before application. Bleach can cause skin burns, which is why you should wear gloves before usage. Use a mixture of bleach-water in a ratio of 1:10 to dilute the concentration of bleach. Apply this blend by spray, sponge or by a cloth on moist surfaces to remove mold. 2. Mold Remediation with Borax Since borax is a natural cleaning product, it is ideal for mold removal. However, Borax is highly toxic and shouldn’t be swallowed. Compared to other mold killers, it does not carry a pungent odor. Borax is a white mineral powder with a pH level of 9. 3. Mold and Vinegar Vinegar in essence is a moderate acidic liquid capable of killing 82% of molds. Vinegar is a non-toxic, safe and natural substance. Unlike bleach, it emits no chemical fumes and can be sprayed by a spray bottle over mold-infested surface. 4. Ammonia and Mold Removal Finally, just like bleach, ammonia releases a pungent smell when exposed to environment. Nevertheless, it is just as effective in mold remediation especially for these surfaces: • Countertops • Glass • Tiles However, it is non effectual in removing mold from wood and drywall. Never mix ammonia and bleach together since they release toxic smell. Also, avoid mixing ammonia with other chemicals like chlorine. Ben Wayne writes for Residential Restorers, a mold removal company in Maryland, featuring services such as mold remediation, water and fire damage restoration, air sampling, and much more.
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