When it comes to families health mold in your home its no laughing matter.

THE WET weather season is here!

About Mold

Molds are simple, microscopic organisms, found virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Molds can be found on plants, foods, dry leaves, and other organic material. Molds are needed for breaking down dead material. Mold  spores are very tiny and lightweight, and this allows them to travel through air ducts and air currents. Mold growths can often be seen in the form of discoloration, ranging from white to orange and from green to brown and black. When molds are present in large quantities, they can cause allergic symptoms similar to those caused by plant pollen.

Should I be concerned about mold in my home?

Yes, if the contamination is extensive. When airborne mold spores are present in large numbers, they can cause allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections, and other respiratory problems for people. Exposure to high spore levels can cause the development of an allergy to the mold. Mold can also cause structural damage to your home. Similarly, when wood goes through a period of wetting, then drying, it can eventually warp and cause walls or become structurally weak.

What does mold need to grow?

For mold to grow, it needs two things:

1. A source of moisture.
2. A place to grow.

Can mold become a problem in my home?

Yes, if there is moisture available to allow mold to thrive and multiply. The following 13 sources of indoor moisture that may cause problems:

1. Flooding.
2. backed-up sewers.
3. Leaky roofs.
4. Humidifiers.
5. Mud or ice dams.
6. Damp basement or crawl spaces.
7. Constant plumbing leaks.
8. House plants --- watering can generate large amounts of moisture.
9. Steam from cooking.
10. Shower/bath steam  and leaks.
11. Wet clothes on indoor drying lines.
12. Clothes dryers vented indoors.
13. Combustion appliances (e.g. stoves) not exhausted to the outdoor.

CAUTION: If you see moisture condensation on the windows or walls, it is also possible that you have a combustion problem in your home. It is important to have sufficient fresh clothes dryer, as well as a fireplace. A shortage of air for these appliances can result in back drafting of dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide into the home. To prevent back drafting of air, you need either open vents or a ventilation system that brings fresh air into the home to replace air that is exhausted out. Have your local utility company like PG&E or a professional heating contractor inspect your fuel-burning appliances annually.

Written By: John BetanCourt
KANI Development Inc. Copyrights All Rights Reserved 2008