Mold Awareness
Awareness Month by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
T
he problems with mold have become so
significant that September was
declared National Indoor Mold There are
approximately 1,000 species of mold that can be found in the United States, with more than 100,000 known species worldwide. As long as moisture and oxygen are present, mold can grow indoors or outdoors on virtually any organic substance, including: wood, paper, carpet, insulation and food. Left untreated, mold gradually destroys the material on which it is growing. More importantly, mold releases chemicals that can cause strong allergic reactions in humans--making them feel sick— sometimes dangerously so.
Warm and humid weather provide excellent conditions for mold to grow if a builder has constructed a house or condominium without taking appropriate steps to prevent rain from getting inside the house or condominium.
The major causes of
mold problems in Florida include, but are not limited to: high humidity, leaky roofs,
plumbing leaks, internal air-conditioning leaks, and ground water wicking up through concrete floors. As we enter the fall, it is important to ensure your home can stand up to moisture intrusion that can lead to mold problems.
Moisture control is key—mold cannot grow without it. To assist in controlling moisture, try to keep the humidity in your home under control.
The ideal humidity for a home
should measure between 30 and 60 percent. Additionally, you can control moisture by using an air conditioner and/or dehumidifier in damp spaces during humid months and utilize exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen.
Another situation homeowners often face are leaks in the home (ceiling, roof, plumbing, etc.). The first sign of mold, due to leaks, may be musty odors in the vicinity of the leak. Do not sniff for mold or touch mold. According to the EPA, the only way to prevent mold growth is to find and correct water damage and leaks. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within
24-48 hours. Additionally, check for leaky roofs, foundations, faucets and pipes, ensuring these areas are not accumulating extra moisture.
A question often asked by homeowners is, will mold make me sick? According to The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold growth in water-damaged homes and office buildings can create a potential health hazard for individuals sensitive to mold. While most molds pose no threat to humans, the CDC warns that certain molds can produce hay fever-like allergic symptoms (such as eye irritation, skin rash and nasal congestion). The presence of mold can also exacerbate existing
conditions, such as asthma.
However, not all molds cause these reactions and not all people are allergic to molds.
If you believe you are ill because of exposure to mold, you should first consult your health care provider to determine the appropriate action to take to protect your health. Your next step should be to consult with a
20 ommunity CAI
VOICE
www.southgulfcoastchaptercai.com
Second Quarter - 2016
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