Understanding mold in your home. Let SERVPRO of St. Cloud help!

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mold found in the wall cavity at a home in St. Cloud, Mn. SERVPRO of St. Cloud provided remediation services.

SERVPRO of St. Cloud is contacted often regarding mold related questions.  There are many concerns about mold in your home or business and how that can affect your health.  To understand the impact of mold, here are ten things you should know about mold:

Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.

1. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
2. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
3. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
4. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
5. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
6. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
7. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
8. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
9. Molds 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.

Should you think you have mold related concerns, please contact SERVPRO of St. Cloud for an assessment.  We can be reached at (320) 248-5400 or office@SERVPROstcloud.com