Moisture Problems and Mold
Mold Problems Anyone?
Mold problems are most often outdoor problems. Mold spores have to enter the
home and adhere to a damp surface and start to grow and as they do, they can
become a very real problem. Humans can become sick or irritated when they come
into contact with mold and mold spores. People who are sensitive to mold can
have allergic reactions from inhaling it or touching mold. The ailments can go
from a little sneezing and eye irritation, to rashes, coughs, and even asthma.
Even people who are not allergic to mold can have irritation of the eyes,
throat, and lungs. It is not a pleasant thing and if you are vigilant it can be
controlled and gotten rid of from inside of your home.
It is vital that any leaks or wet surfaces are cleaned and dried. If the
moisture content in your home is over 55% you will have a problem. A prime spot
for water to leak into the home are cracks in the cellar floor, even small
cracks. Sometimes this can be corrected by directing the ground outside away
from your windows, which in turn keeps it from the basement. Still other causes
of water in the basement can come from having no gutters on your home or the
ground near the home which allows water to run toward the basement on the
outside. If you have tubs or sinks in the basement any little crack around the
legs is the perfect place for mold growth to start. The same goes for pipes.
Other things you can do to keep moisture out is if you have a crawl space make
sure it is vented well and cover it with plastic so dampness doesn’t seep up
from the ground. Using air conditioners or dehumidifiers in the warm weather
will help keep humidity levels down. The air in your home holds less moisture
when it is cool. That is how you get water vapor or water droplets on the inside
of your windows.
Be very careful if you plan to install carpet over concrete. Sometimes it is
best to put a barrier for moisture, like plastic, between the concrete floor and
the carpet you are installing.
As we talk about moisture, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, etc. you must
realize that different parts of the country have different climates. Problems in
the Northeastern United States where it is wet and cool will certainly be
different than those in the Southeastern United States where it is mainly hot
and humid. Whatever the case, with careful research and planning you can get rid
of your mold problem.
By: Bradley Skierkowski