Importance of Mold Testing for Your Home
Whether your home is ten years or 100 years old, it may contain a hidden danger and health risk: mold. There are up to 12 different types of mold that may present and consequently related to health issues you and your family are experiencing. Many kinds of mold are benign, meaning harmless. And there are a few, such as penicillin that are extremely helpful. Your house is not only your biggest investment but also the place you live and raise your family. So, you want the healthiest environment possible. For that reason mold testing for your home is paramount. You may be surprised to discover the hidden dangers lurking.
The Effects of Mold
The health of you and your family, even your pets can be affected by mold. Molds have been known to cause allergic reactions to the toxic substances. If you or someone in your family is highly sensitive to mold, merely inhaling mold spores can cause a dangerous effect ranging from fevers to rashes to asthma attacks. Exposure to black mold has been associated with the following health issues:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Nosebleeds
- Headaches
- Rashes
- Fatigue
- Asthma
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bleeding in the lungs
Furthermore, prolonged exposure to mold can irritate sensitive areas like the eyes, lungs, skin, and throat, in anyone.
The Causes of Mold
Moisture is the primary cause of mold. The most popular areas a home might harbor mold are damp or have access to water. Mold growth is commonly discovered in places such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. However, you may be surprised to find that other areas such as those with plants, or a room with a humidifier may experience mold growth. Surprisingly, the Federal Emergency Management Agency states that mold growth can occur in less than 24 hours in the right conditions. So, if you have a leak in your home, mold may be present within only a day!
Mold Remediation
Total View Home Inspections understands the importance of mold testing for your home. If you see visible mold, we highly recommend immediate mold testing before removal to ascertain the type. However, time is always of the essence. While it may be categorized as harmless, to avoid any potential health risks, the CDC recommends eradicating mold as soon as possible. And, although you may be tempted to clean the mold yourself, there are many factors involved that require professional attention. Further, the best defense against mold is prevention. Black mold treatment starts with addressing the moisture issue that encouraged its growth. Total View Home Inspections understands this and offers our customers a moisture monitor to ensure your home is always safe.
