Molds are those thick, slimy substances that soil almost every part of your home. Foul-smelling and awfully prevalent, these fungi can destroy house fixtures in such a short span of time. Aside from that, they could cause life-threatening diseases to whoever comes in contact with them. Given these harmful effects, it is important that you know more about these pests. By gaining some information, you can somehow inhibit the abundance of molds.
Information on Molds
Molds live on any organic matter. That could be paper, wood, or dead material. Also, molds help in the decomposition and recycling of certain substances to balance the ecosystem. While they are extremely beneficial organisms in our environment, their presence in household areas should be controlled and reduced.
Black mold reproduces through the production of mold spores. These spores are distributed on different media, such as air and water. New mold from the spores will then develop given that the right temperature and surroundings for their growth are met.
Types of Molds
Basically, molds are classified into three types, namely pathogenic, toxigenic and allergenic molds. Pathogenic molds produce certain infections which affect people with weak immune systems. One example of a disease caused by this type of mold is hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Another type is toxigenic molds, which are very harmful because they generate mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can bring several diseases, including immune system suppression and cancer.
Allergenic molds, on the other hand, do not create toxins. They produce allergens which could penetrate your body and induce asthma or allergies. Sore throats, skin irritations and rashes are some of eth symptoms associated with the presence of allergenic molds.
How to Locate Hidden Mold
The surface of pipes, the bottom of carpets, the back of wallpaper and the sides of your bathroom tiles are some of the possible locations of molds in your home. Bathroom mold removal can be a tedious process. Check these spots regularly to ensure that there is no mold buildup.
Conditions that suggest the presence of hidden molds:
- You can smell a seemingly grimy substance on that area.
- House fixtures such as cabinets or wall posters are reducing in size. This is because molds feed on the materials from where your fixture is made.
Other Information about Molds
- The best way to control mold growth is through moisture control. This is done by eliminating all the water accumulations in a specific part of the house where molds thrive. Then, total moisture is reduced to 30-60%, to ensure that molds will not be able to flourish.
- Molds can grow anywhere, may it be wood surfaces, carpets or papers.
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