I recently came across a problem with mold in my own home in Rochester, NH, so I figured since Spring is right around the corner, this may be something all home owners should be looking out for. I received some information from the NH Department of Environmental Services on mold.
First of all, mold is a source of indoor air pollution and, in large amounts, can cause mild to serious health problems. Mold can cause structural damage to homes that can effect resale. According to The NH Department of Environmental Services, there is No Need To Panic. You should, however, be concerned.
If you think you have a problem, go searching for mold. Look for the visible evidence. Mold appears cottony, velvety, granular or leathery, and may be white, gray, brown, black, yellow, or green. You will also be able to smell mold(that musty, damp odor). Look for excess moisture or water damage. Look for water leaks, standing water, water stains and condensation, (Like a basement or attic). If you find mold, you have to remove it.
It is not good enough to just take the mold damaged products out, but you have to get to the source of the issue. Some common sources are:
- Flooding
- Condensation (Indoor Humidity)
- Roof Leaks
- Overflow From Tubs, Sink or Toilets
- Firewood Stored Indoors
- Humidifier Use
- Inadequate Venting (Kitchen, Bathroom, Combustion Appliances, Clothes Dryers)
- Line Drying Laundry Indoors
- House Plants
You want to keep indoor surfaces as dry as possible. You can purchase devises that measure relative humidity in your home. You want to maintain the homes relative humidity between 30-40 percent. Ventilate, keep air circulating and a dehumidifier can help in the effort to keep things dry.
I hope this information can be of help, for more help visit www.des.nh.gov/ard/ehp/iaq/
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