Mold
Ten Things You Should Know About Mold
- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposure include allergic reactions and other respiratory complaints.
- 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.
- If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity to 30-60%. Decrease mold growth by venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; 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 within 24 to 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 moldy may need to be replaced.
- Prevent condensation. Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof or floors) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., near drinking fountains, classroom sinks or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
- Molds can be found almost anywhere; it can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet and foods.