Mold is one of the most frequent issues that homeowners face. It develops fast, growing as fast as 24 to 48 hours inside the house when water or moisture is present. But despite everything that is known about mold, there are still a lot of misconceptions. Once you bust the myths, then you will get a better understanding of mold and its impact on your health and home. We have put together a list of nine common mold myths and the truth behind them. Use this information to your advantage when you experience a mold problem.
9 Mold Myths Debunked
Mold Myth 1: Mold has no benefits
Truth: whilst mold can influence your health due to long-term exposure, some molds can also be beneficial. The mold discovered in natural environments assists decompose organic material, allowing different organisms to develop. Particular molds, such as Aspergillus flavus, are employed in the production of cheese. Several molds are used in medicine, as well. For instance, the Penicillium mold has been used to create Penicillin, the first antibiotic found. However, immunocompromised people exposed to high levels of these molds may become sick.
Mold Myth 2: Repeated mold exposure won’t make me sick
Truth: Although not everyone is affected when exposed to mold, all molds have the potential to cause distress or illness, especially among people who have respiratory issues. Typical symptoms associated with mold exposure include coughing, watery eyes, congestion, headaches, and even memory loss and dizziness. Most recently, researchers at Rutgers University have found that mold exposure can cause Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms.
Mold Myth 3: There should be no mold in my home
Truth: The reality is that mold spores are present everywhere, indoors and outside. The air you’re breathing contains mold spores, and eliminating it is nearly impossible. The problem lies in the concentration of mold on your property. Greater quantities of mold can pose health risks and damage your house when you don’t look after the mold infestation.
Mold Myth 4: Mold is obviously observable
Truth: Many people think that simply because they can not see it, it’s not there. Seeing is not believing when it comes to mold, as not all types of mold are visible. Therefore, it’s best to rely on smell to find mold. If you smell a musty odor, then there is likely mold present.
Mold Myth 5: You are able to identify the species of mold that’s growing in your home
Truth: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that there are anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of mold and fungi species — way too many to identify. However, a few of the most common found in homes are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria, and Aspergillus.
Mold Myth 6: Using bleach is a good way to kill mold
Truth: a lot of men and women utilize bleach as a mold removal alternative in their property. However, they are unaware that bleach kills only live mold, but not mold spores. The worst part is the fact that removing mold with water and bleach can allow mold to regrow faster. Rather, use a mixture of household detergent and water to get small mold remediation.
Mold Myth 7: You shouldn’t worry about a little spot of mold
Truth: Actually, a mold problem can become larger if the moisture problem is not addressed. What is more, mold can propagate to some organic surface, as well as the heating and ventilation system in your property. This may result in widespread damage and costly repairs.
Mold Myth 8: You are able to clean up mold infestations yourself
Truth: Even infected areas smaller than 10 square feet require professional mold removal services. In fact, your efforts in eliminating mold can accelerate mold growth. Well-trained mold remediation professionals have specialized equipment and understand the crucial techniques to get rid of mold much more efficiently.
Mold Myth 9: After the mold is gone, it will not come back
Truth: Removing mold is one thing, but resolving the water issue is something different. The only way to completely stop mold from returning is to fix the moisture or water problem that caused the mold to grow in the first location.
For mold removal solutions, contact PuroClean today!
As you can see, mold is severe, often misunderstood issue that may grow much harder if it isn’t taken care of correctly. That is why PuroClean franchisees follow the IICRC criteria for expert mold remediation and eliminate mold using the latest, most efficient practices. For more information, contact PuroClean property restoration today, or visit them here to learn more.