Molds are a type of fungus that grows in a multicellular way. They are large and have a diverse number of species and the growth of their multicellular filaments called hyphae makes whatever they appear on discolored and with a fuzzy appearance. For more info on this, see this article.
Molds are especially attracted to food and wood. They cause things to degrade and this makes them destructive to both food and property alike. In contrast to this, they can also play a role in food science and biotechnology where they are controlled and are used in the production of antibiotics, foods, beverages, drugs, and enzymes. These microbes can cause health issues in both humans and animals when they are exposed to its spores and they are inhaled or ingested. Others may be allergic and sensitive to it causing an allergic breakout.
They can be present both indoors and outdoors. In fact, it is safe to say that they are everywhere. Its spores float in the air and are not usually visible to the human eye. These spores can enter your Gaithersburg home through most openings; windows, doors, AC/heating system vents. It could also come in through the clothes you put on or through your pets.
These spores thrive in moist or damp areas and they grow into colonies that produce allergens and irritants when water is present. It is these allergens and irritants that can cause the health issues we mentioned above. You can find them growing on walls, appliances, floors, carpet, cupboards and closets, and upholstery. Because they thrive on moisture, you are likely to see it in places like your kitchen, bathroom, laundry, basement and damp places not exposed to light.
Summers in Gaithersburg are warm and humid and winter comes with ice and snow which can cause moisture build-up anywhere in the home. This presents potential breeding grounds for these organisms. To this end, always endeavor to keep your home free of moisture as much as possible.
Health Effects
Mold in the home can have some health effects as we can see here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold_health_issues. For sensitive people, touching or inhaling its spores can cause sneezing, red eyes, runny nose, and even skin rash. Other effects might include shortness of breath and for people with asthma, it could lead to asthmatic attacks.
If you have babies or the elderly, it could also be dangerous to them as well as for people with terminal diseases who have their immune systems compromised.
A person’s reaction to mold will be dependent on the individual’s sensitivity. It will also depend on the presence of other health conditions, the type of mold present, the amount present and the length of exposure to it. Prolonged exposure may pose serious health risks. Due to all these, getting read of mold as soon as possible is important.
Asides its health effects, there is also a damage to your property. The value of your Gaithersburg property will drastically reduce if it is not treated in a timely manner.
Getting Rid of Them
On your part, what you can do to rid yourself of this infestation is to remove or reduce any source of moisture. You can do this by using dehumidifiers and air conditioners to remove moisture from your home. Dry wet areas as soon as you notice them. In the kitchen and bathroom, use exhaust fans to remove moisture and of course check pipes for leaks and immediately fix them if there is any.
In summer, make sure to open windows and blinds so the home can be aerated. You may also leave doors and closets open to have them properly aired. During winter, turn up the heat in your Gaithersburg home. It should not be too humid so as not to compound the problem. You should, therefore, use dry air as much as possible. Also, ensure adequate airflow when heating your home.
Since mold spores are microscopic and they exist virtually everywhere, removing them totally is impossible. Professional mold removal companies understand how they grow and how to remove them through a process called remediation. Remediation focuses on getting the mold level in your home to normal levels. Every situation is different and therefore requires unique solutions.
If there is mold already growing, reaching out to a removal company for remediation is best. After inspecting your home, they will contain it from spreading then remove and dispose whatever should be disposed of. They will also clean up afterward and inspect again for any traces of it to leave you with a clean and mold-free home.
Conclusion
The first step to ridding your Gaithersburg home of mold is removing moisture. For your safety and that of your family, it is best to treat it as soon as possible by calling in professionals to handle it. By getting rid of them, you not only ensure the health of the inhabitants of your home but you also prevent damage to your home and property.
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