Ten Things You Should Know About Mold:
- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures including allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
- If mold is a problem in your home or building, you should clean up the mold, eliminate sources of moisture and contact a San Diego mold removal specialist.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outsides; using air conditioners, and dehumidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning.
- Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings with-in 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles that are mold affected may need to be replaced.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e. windows, piping, exterior walls, roof or flooring) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e. by sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation) .
- Mold can be found almost anywhere: they can grow on virtually any substance providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet and foods.