Mold: A Concise Breakdown
Most people think that it can take years for toxic mold to grow in sufficient quantities to affect someone’s health in a negative way. But the truth is, it can take less than 3 days if the conditions are right.
For instance, damp basements are the ideal breeding ground for mold. The problem is further exacerbated because damp basements and crawl spaces are becoming an increasingly common problem for homeowners in Maryland and all across the United States.
Mold and Its Effects
There are several species of mold. And, while some species will only ruin your belongings, others can aggravate your health. These dangerous varieties of mold can cause serious damage to your respiratory system. Other symptoms you may experience include:
- Itchy eyes and skin
- Headaches
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
Furthermore, the reactions vary from individual to individual. As a result, the side effects range from mild to severe, depending on how sensitive you are to it.
Interesting Facts
Everyone knows that mold thrives in places where there is sufficient moisture. But, few ever pay attention to what they eat, another vital element of their survival. These fungi actually love organic materials like, wood, wallpaper, paint and fabric, which is why they seem to grow virtually anywhere.
Furthermore, it doesn’t matter how much of a neat freak you are, mold can still gain a foothold in your home. These stubborn fungi can live in virtually any condition and reproduce in temperatures as low as 48 degrees Fahrenheit. In other words, it can grow in your home at virtually any time of year.
Mold Prevention
There’s no denying that mold is extremely resilient but, this doesn’t mean that you and your family are left without any options for defense. You just have to know one little thing i.e. the best way to prevent mold from growing by reducing the amount of humidity in your house.
One of the best ways to do so is to make sure that your basement doesn’t have any leaks or cracks for moisture to creep in. If you find that it does, then it’s time to call a reliable and professional waterproofing company in your neck of the woods. This will help you minimize or completely eliminate water accumulation, denying mold a safe haven in which to grow.
The Bottom Line
There are serious health issues associated with mold growth, which makes it extremely important that you take preemptive measures to keep it out of your home. If you would like to know more about how waterproofing your basement can help minimize its effect on your life, contact the professionals at AAWaterproofing today.