Mold

Even though mold growth is a topic that is often talked about and there is a good general awareness about the dangers associated with infestations, it is still a major problem that affects households throughout the Bay Area. With the serious impact on human health, such as respiratory and skin issues, early detection and immediate remediation should always be a priority.

Mold has the incredible ability to grow and spread within as little as 24 to 28 hours. This isn’t so hard to fathom once we understand that all mold needs to grow is a damp surface and organic matter. Wood, carpet, drywall, nearly all fabrics, cardboard, dying plants, and even insulation are all perfect nutrient supplies for mold.

Common Causes of Mold Growth

When we talk about the most common causes of mold growth, flooding is at the very top of the list. Once a flood occurs it only takes 1 to 2 days before mold starts to develop. The lack of proper cleanup can allow small pockets of leftover moisture to become hotbeds for mold growth. The following is a small but good list of some of the most common causes of mold:

• Recent flooding or a sewage backup
• Roof leaks
• Plumbing leaks & burst pipes
• Bathtub and sink overflows
• High humidity areas such as single pain windows

While most only know it by the term “black mold”, Stachybotrys Atra is the mold strain that poses the highest health risk to humans. It is especially toxic when exposure takes place over a long period of time. It’s high cellulose content allows it to thrive in wet organic materials such as wood and paper.

Of course, black mold isn’t the only toxic mold species that is harmful to humans. Any mold that produces “mycotoxin” can also wreak havoc on our well being. From symptoms as small as headaches to permanent neurological damage, and many other serious issues in between.

Mold Growth Contaminates Indoor Air

Aside from structural damage and the ability for mold to ruin personal belongings, mold can affect your home or business in another even more harmful way. Far and away the scariest affect mold growth can have on your home is it’s impact on air quality. When mold spreads, it does so by releasing “mold spores” into the air. Mold spores are tiny particles that carry mold from one surface to the next. During their journey they are inhaled by homeowners and their families. Once inhaled, mold can present itself in the following ways:

• Serious respiratory conditions
  • asthma, wheezing, sneezing, sinus & nasal congestion
• Eye irritation
  • itchy & watery eyes
  • severe redness of the sclera
  • burning eyes
• Throat & nasal irritation
  • constant coughing, sneezing fits, nose bleeds
• Unexplained body aches and pains
• Nervous system complications
  • sudden memory loss
  • mood swings
  • sever headaches

When small children or eldery individuals become affected the risk for serious immune system issues increases significantly. In severe cases, significant & prolonged exposure to mold in indoor air can become a life-threatening issue.

The Importance of Mold Remediation Services

No matter what type of mold is growing in your home, one thing is for sure, hiring a professional mold remediation company is the best way to effectively stop mold growth in its tracks. The longer that mold is left and let to grow, the harder and more expensive the process will be. If you have suspected mold growth in your home, have noticed a wet/musty/earthy smell, or have unexplained allergies that seem to flare up in certain areas of your home, contact us today! We would be remiss not to mention that the majority of mold is not toxic. In fact, some molds are even okay for homeowners to clean themselves. However, as we mentioned befiore, mold can affect your home in many ways that are not health related. Our San Jose based team of dedicated mold remediation specialists are dedicated to providing around the clock services to the entire South Bay!