Mold is a type of fungus that exists everywhere in nature. These molds can exist in different colors, and can be green, orange, purple, white, or black. Molds come in different types and may be classified as allergenic, toxigenic, or infectious. Indoors, mold can cause damage to organic building materials and can endanger human health.
ServiceMaster of the Upstate discusses mold and why professional mold remediation is important and beneficial for property owners.
Where Does Mold Grow?
- Organic matter is the primary food source for mold. They may thrive on animal or plant debris, as well as textiles, paper, and wood.
- Molds may appear to be a fuzzy coating, but they signify deterioration or uncleanliness. These fungi are capable of wreaking havoc on your property. They can eat away at your home’s fundamental organic components, including wood paneling, drywall, ceiling tiles, wall studs, carpeting, floors, and wallpaper.
- If left unchecked, mold will nibble away at objects until they deteriorate and eventually disintegrate.
Mold grows where there is moisture. Water penetration can occur anywhere in your home. In addition to the bathroom and basement, to avoid extensive damages and mold growth, it’s important always to be looking at the following areas for the signs of water damage:
- Ceilings and walls: Water damage to the ceiling can occur as a consequence of water leaking in through the roof or, if there is a bathroom on the floor above, as a result of a leaking bathroom pipe. Check for the same sources of water damage on walls, as well as areas around doors and windows.
- Floors: Water-damaged floors can be caused by a variety of factors, including overflowing sinks and tubs or leaking appliances.
- External Walls: Improper drainage or gutters that do not effectively remove water from your home are frequent sources of exterior wall damage.
- Attic: Stains, mold, and bulging insulation are all frequent indicators of an infested attic.
- Appliances: Look for evidence of pooling or leaks beneath or behind your refrigerator, washer and dryer, water heater, toilets, and sinks.
Health Effects of Mold Exposure
Mold can have many adverse effects on your health. The severity of the infestation and the mold types that your body may be exposed to can cause a wide range of health issues. These molds may trigger respiratory infections, asthma, and other breathing difficulties. Mold can make you more vulnerable to more symptomatic illnesses and diseases.
These can be the other unwanted symptoms and health hazards that mold spores may cause, including:
- fever
- headaches
- dizziness
- fatigue
- memory loss
- sinus infections
- nausea
- hives and skin rashes
- immune system suppression
- depression.
People can also develop Sick Building Syndrome, which is characterized by a condition affecting office workers, typically marked by headaches and respiratory problems attributed to unhealthy or stressful factors in the working environment, such as poor ventilation due to mold infestation. Your health can worsen the longer you are exposed to these hazardous mold spores.
Implementing consistent home checks in places like the bathroom, attic, and basement can help to catch the growth of mold before a loved one begins to feel these symptoms.
Mold Remediation Service in Greenville, South Carolina
ServiceMaster of the Upstate can help you pinpoint the real cause of the infestation and recommend a long-lasting solution to your mold problem. Call our 24/7 live answering service at (864) 310-7891 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
- Over 10 years of experience
- IICRC Certified Firm
- Skilled professional team
- 24/7 live answering service
We service residential and commercial properties in Greenville, South Carolina and the surrounding areas. Stop mold from spreading as soon as possible. Contact us today.