Our home is a place of comfort and respite from the world, but it can easily turn into a place of frustration and malaise if not properly maintained. One of the greatest threats to your well-being inside your home is black mold, a type of fungus that can cause serious issues not just for your house, but for you too.
Portland’s high precipitation and cloudy skies make for a perfect mold medium, as these microorganisms thrive on moisture and warm temperatures, such as inside a poorly sealed basement or laundry room with a leaky hose. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent this from happening, and to eradicate the colonies should they appear. Let’s explore what black mold is, how to identify it, and what to do so that you never deal with the fungal fallout from this tricky organism.
Black mold is a dangerous fungal growth that causes respiratory distress
This microorganism is officially known as Stachybotrys chartatum, a greenish-black mold that produces a substance known as mycotoxin; in other words, toxic mold spores. When released, these can cause serious respiratory infections and even hemorrhaging in humans, particularly in those with weak immune systems such as infants and the elderly. Even for those who don’t become seriously ill, they may suffer an allergic reaction that causes watering eyes and sneezing. It’s particularly dangerous for people with asthma, as their lungs are very vulnerable.
Mold infestations may be subtle, but they quickly grow out of control
Unfortunately for humans, black mold loves some of our most favorite building materials, such as wallpaper, gypsum board, and drywall; it also reproduces very quickly and releases thousands of spores while reproducing, spreading its toxic brew far and wide.
Signs of black mold infestations include a musty odor, trouble breathing, allergic reactions such as itchy skin or eyes, headaches, fatigue, and black buildup around vents and fans. If you note any of these signs, it’s time to search “restoration Portland OR” and hunt down an excellent mold remediation company who can get you back on track.
However, if you want to cut mold off at the pass, let’s take a look at some of the easiest ways to intervene before you find your home colonized by the very worst type of roommate.
Proper dehumidification and ventilation can make a world of difference
Mold thrives in dark, damp corners with plenty of moisture available; it needs constant moisture and food to survive. By ensuring that your home is well ventilated and that humidity never rises above 50%, you will reduce the likelihood of mold growth by giving it nothing to eat.
In basements, laundry rooms, and other areas that may have poor ventilation, purchase dehumidifiers that can handle the room size. Be sure to empty and clean them regularly to avoid mold growth inside the dehumidifier itself.
Bathrooms should always have ventilations like fans in order to keep them dry, especially when taking a shower. If you don’t yet have a fan in the room, make it a priority to have one installed; in the meantime, set up a dehumidifier and keep the windows open as much as possible in order to improve circulation.
Fix leaks and dry wet spots as soon as possible
Commit to having your plumbing checked on a regular basis to ensure that there are no leaks that could encourage mold growth, and watch your walls and ceilings for any signs of potential water damage. Things like damp patches, peeling paint, swollen drywall, and bubbling wallpaper can all indicate water, as can brown, yellow, or white streaks on the walls.
If you spill anything in the home, dry it thoroughly and immediately. Blot the area with towels, then aim fans at the area so that you can reduce the risk of mold growth.
Use mold-resistant paints and wall treatments
The last thing you can do is to make sure that mold has no foothold on your walls and ceilings by using mold-resistant paints and other treatments. These can be found at your local hardware store or by online order. Be sure to apply it only to a clean, dry wall, as otherwise you may simply encourage mold growth underneath the surface of the paint. Give it multiple coatings and ensure full coverage to have maximum peace of mind.
Mold remediation companies are an excellent resource should you find yourself dealing with black mold in the home, but you can also work to prevent it altogether by following these tips. Remember that mold loves humidity, moisture, and nutrition: aim to give it as little as possible in order to live your best life.
