As long as there is moisture and warmth, there can be mold. Air conditioning coils, faulty heating system humidifiers or just the humid Aiken environment can provide mold spores a chance to grow.
Mold spores are an integral part of our regular environment outdoors. We always have a small level of them that get inside through the breeze, on our clothing or pets. The spores get blown around by our fans and AC units until they settle and are dormant. A plumbing or roofing leak with warm conditions or heat producing equipment in rooms without ventilation in small closets can lead to a mold infestation.
Even if you do not usually have allergies, exposure to mold can cause these reactions. Symptoms include runny nose, sore throat, itchy water eyes, and cough. Physical mold exposure may cause a skin rash.
People with asthma or COPD are more at risk of triggering exacerbations if they encounter mold. Immunocompromised individuals are at risk of lung infections if exposed (pneumonia).
Mold infestation isn’t always visible to the naked eye. Often times the only clue is an odor when opening a closed up building. If a mold infestation is visible, this may mean the situation is severe. Mold is usually found in dark hidden places such as HVAC ducts, behind drywall, and inside cabinets.
Attempting to elliminate the growth yourself can disturb and discharge even more mold spores into the air, spreading the infestation even further into the building. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact us for environmental testing of your commercial, industrial or residential business today.
The cleanup plan of a mold infestation is determined by the actual size effected. If the infestation is greater than 10 square feet, the EPA recommends treatment by a professional. If the area is less than 10 square feet, a layman can clean it provided they wear gloves, goggles and masks.
The most critical step in controlling mold growth is decreasing moisture in a building. This can be done by adequate ventilation, fixing leaks and disposing of and replacing absorbent wet materials such as carpets, padding and drywall. Here a few other tips for helping to reduce moisture indoors: