Mold and the Indoor Air Quality
Updated: Feb 22, 2019
Mold is a natural part of the environment and beneficial in helping decompose dead plants. However, when it comes to our homes or buildings we work in, mold is not a welcome visitor. Mold has become a growing concern as the public becomes more aware of the potential hazards of mold.
Why is Mold a Problem Indoors?
If mold begins to grow indoors, it can quickly reproduce growing on surfaces and inside walls. As the mold begins to break down building materials such as drywall and wooden joists, there are mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds that get released into the air. These chemicals can negatively impact the human body and lead to a number of minor and major health issues.
Even when the integrity of building structures has not been compromised by mold, if mold is present, it is likely releasing spores into the air. These mold spores are known to cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
Indoor Air Quality Affects Health
According to research, most of us spend more than 80% of our lives indoors. With that amount of time breathing re-circulated air, it should not be poor quality. Poor air quality affects our overall well-being. It can cause sinus and congestion issues, dry eyes and skin, sneezing, depression, headaches and fatigue. Statistics released by the EPA state that indoor pollution in the work environment decrease employee productivity by as much as 50%.
Of course there are many constituents that could contribute to indoor pollution such as unclean chimneys and stoves, pets, carbon monoxide, cigarette smoke, and even beauty products. Long-term exposure to indoor pollutants, depending on what they are can cause more than respiratory ailments, they can lead to long-term illness including cancer and heart disease.
Indoor Air Quality Improvements
Proper ventilation plays a major role in indoor air quality. With quality air circulation and humidity controls, the production and distribution of mold spores can decrease substantially. Additionally, using filtered air cleaners and dehumidifiers in humid spaces such as poorly ventilated bathrooms or basements will provide benefits as well.
Also, whenever possible, allow outdoor air into your home too. It not only makes the home smell fresher, but the air exchange will help alleviate moisture problems indoors.
Don’t forget there are multiple benefits to spring cleaning and it doesn’t have to be reserved for once a year. Regular maintenance including filter replacement, dusting, and vacuuming reduce pollen, debris, and dust mites; all of which encourage mold growth and decrease indoor air quality.
If someone in your home begins experiencing allergy symptoms or respiratory problems, it is worth considering the air quality of your home. Different people react to poor air quality different, but the health and safety of you and your family should never be taken for granted. Like other indoor pollutants, mold can cause health issues as well and a licensed mold assessor will provide you with information and advice regarding the presence of mold in your home.
Call Albany Mold Today
Mold Assessors will thoroughly inspect your home for mold and if necessary will formulate a mold remediation plan for you.
