What is mold?
Mold is a microscopic fungus. Mold feeds on decomposing organic matter and reproduces rapidly.
Why is mold a problem?
Many molds are harmless; however, if you've ever gotten food poisoning or suffered from allergies, you know that not all molds are benign. Some molds create toxins, which seriously affect the health of people.
Where do you find mold?
Homes make an ideal growing place for mold. Molds thrive in temperatures between 60° and 100° F, where moisture and an abundant food supply are present.
Are certain surfaces more susceptible to mold?
Yes. Drywall, gypsum wallboard, wood, adhesive, ceiling tiles, paint, plywood, paper and cardboard all contain cellulose, which are more susceptible to mold than other surfaces. The reason they are more susceptible is that cellulose is a source of food for molds.
Are mildew and mold the same?
While similar, mildew and mold are not the same. While mold is a fungus, mildew is an organism that feeds on organic tissues. In homes, mildew thrives on damp surfaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Is there anything home owners can do to combat mold?
When you choose to hire a professional painting company, such as A Finishing Touch Painters (AFT Painters www.aftPainters.com) be sure they apply paint with anti-microbial properties, such as Sherwin-Williams Duration Home.
How do I clean mold off surfaces in my home before painting?
You can use a detergent cleaner to clean mold that is growing on any non-porous surfaces. Any porous surfaces such as drywall must be completely replaced, and the area must then be cleaned thoroughly. If you find mold on drywall, stop your painting project and call a professional painter, such as A Finishing Touch Painters (AFT Painters www.aftPainters.com) to have the drywall replaced before painting.
What about wood trim?
Wood trim is a tricky topic as it relates to mold. Wood trim is semi-porous and if infected will require a combination of cleaning and/or replacing. If the mold infestation is not severe, cleaning the mold will probably be fine. If the mold growth is severe, A Finishing Touch Painters (AFT Painters www.aftPainters.com) suggest replacing the trim.
How do I prevent mold growth in my home?
- Allow for drainage of rainwater
- Exhaust moist air out of the house
- Seal ductwork
- Allow plenty of fresh air to circulate through proper ventilation
- Remove sources of mold
Mold Myths Revealed
All molds are toxic.
Few molds actually cause health problems and they only do so under certain conditions.
Black mold is the worst.
First and foremost, toxicity of mold cannot be determined by color. Additionally, there are many molds that are black and not all of which are "Black Mold."
Mold only grows in warm and humid climates.
Most molds flourish in temperatures between 60° and 100° F. That being said, some molds have adapted to flourish in any climate.
Old buildings have more mold problems than new construction.
New construction requirements actually require tighter insulation, which is more susceptible to mold. The tighter insulation allows moisture to build up inside, resulting in newer builds having more problems.
Using bleach eliminates mold.
Bleach can control mold growth on surfaces, but often does not affect the source of the mold. Also, note that bleach should not be used on porous materials or metals.
A Finishing Touch Painters
Painting Houses Into Homes
One Home at a Time
866-308-0011
www.aftPainters.com
CustomerService@aftPainters.com
About the author:
A Finishing Touch Painters began as in interior and exterior residential painting company in the Southwest, West, and Northwest suburbs of Chicago, IL. Originally, the company focused on painting houses in the Naperville, Plainfield, Oswego, and Yorkville areas in the "South Region" and painting houses in Huntley, Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, and Crystal Lake in the "North Region." Over the years, A Finishing Touch Painters South Region expanded into painting homes in Bolingbrook, Aurora, Montgomery, Plano, and North Aurora. The North region expanded into painting homes in Elgin, Gilberts, Sleepy Hollow, Dundee, and West Dundee. Through their exceptional service, A Finishing Touch Painters has expanded again. A Finishing Touch Painters is now servicing most of the Chicagoland suburbs.
(Copyright © 2008 by A Finishing Touch Painters, LLC. All Rights Reserved.)
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