In a home or building, moulds and fungi are typically found growing on wood, drywall (plaster/gypsum/Sheetrock®), upholstery, fabric, wallpaper, drapery, ceiling tiles, and carpeting. Moulds and fungi are found in nature and are required for the breakdown of leaves, wood, and other plant debris. These micro-organisms can enter a building directly or by their spores being carried in by the air.
What kinds of mold are there?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that all moulds should be treated the same in terms of health risk and removal. Some of the more common types of mould found in buildings include: Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra, or black mould) Aspergillus sp. Penicillium sp. Fusarium sp.
How do molds affect people's health?
There are many of these moulds that produce ""mycotoxins,"" which are metabolites or by-products from the moulds that have been identified as being toxic to humans. Although the presence of mould does not always indicate the likelihood of health issues, for some people inhaling the mould, fragments of the moulds, or spores can cause health problems or exacerbate certain health conditions.
What can I do to stop the spread of mold?
The best method of prevention is to reduce the amount of moisture; first, identify the source of the moisture, and solve the issue. Maintain the relative humidity between 30% and 50%. To achieve this goal, prevention measures include: Vent showers and other moisture generating sources directly to the outside. Control humidity with air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers*.
What precisely should I check during an inspection?
While conducting the inspection, be sure to look at, in, or under the following areas: Ceiling tiles. Walls, including plaster, wallpaper, and condition of drywall (Sheetrock®, gypsum wall board). Cardboard or paper. Floors. Window sills. Insulation. The most common signs of water damage will be discoloration and staining. Moulds will most often appear as dark spots, stains, or patches.
What should I do to remove the mold?
In general, once mould has been found, it is advised that porous materials such as dry wall, ceiling tiles, fabric, books, paper, cardboard, etc. be thrown out and replaced rather than cleaned whenever possible. It may be necessary to throw away carpets, cushions, furnishings, mattresses, pillows, stuffed toys, or bedding that cannot be properly cleaned. Non-porous materials such as metal, glass, and plastic should be used instead of porous ones such as carpets, cushions, and bedding.""" - https://www.affordablecebu.com/
