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Mold Blog

Mold Could Be Why You Feel Sick All the Time at Home

We get so many clients that talk about feeling sick at home but feeling fine when they are at work. That seems backwards…right? Our homes should be our “feel good” havens, not what makes us feel sick.

A common occurrence is that there has been some type of water damage in the home that the property owner is not aware of.

There are many different sources that are not readily apparent. This can include hidden slow leaks behind cabinets, a leaking window, a leaking shower pan, hydrostatic pressure from

the ground, etc. When moisture is present, mold is not far behind…especially in our tropical paradise.

When moisture problems occur and mold growth results, there are different reactions a person can be feeling as a result.

The CDC states this the best.. “Most people will not be harmed by most molds and most molds will not harm most people.

However, some people will be harmed by any mold and some molds will harm anyone.”

Those most susceptible to mold toxins have high allergies, lowered immunities, the very young and the very old.

Also, the possibility of different levels of mold exposure sensitivity must always be considered when evaluating potential health risks. Some indicators that you may have a mold concern are:

  • Breathing difficulties
  • Headaches
  • Burning Eyes
  • Skin Rash
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Constant Runny Nose & Cough
  • Allergic Reactions
  • Fever

If you are experiencing regular symptoms like these, you should consider having your home evaluated and tested for mold toxins.

As always, prevention is the best cure. The most impactive thing that mold needs to grow is moisture.

If you have moisture in the home, get it dried up immediately. Contact Lightning Restoration for a free evaluation to make sure that hidden moisture has dried up, so you do not get a Mold problem!

Categories
Mold Blog

How Do I Prevent Mold Growth?

If you have a water leak, it’s important to clean and dry the area immediately to prevent mold growth. Porous materials, such as drywall and wood wall cavity wood framing can appear dry, but still hold a significant amount of moisture that will cause mold damage. Under the right conditions, mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours. 

As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Some Quick Ways to Help Prevent Mold Growth

Keep your eyes open.  Identify and controlling water problems is the first step in discouraging mold growth.  Here are a few quick tips.

  • Every month, when you change your AC filters, also look at all of your ceilings and under cabinets.  Look for signs of moisture. 
  • Monitor the humidity in your home.  Keep humidity in the low 50’s or less. 
  • Regularly maintain your HVAC system.  A poorly running HVAC system will not sufficiently process the humidity in your home, which could lead to a Mold Bloom. 
  • Properly ventilate your clothes dryer and clean the lint exhaust regularly
  • Use tile, not carpet or wood, in moisture-prone areas.  In Florida, it is common to find older homes that have elevated moisture in the concrete slab due to the high-water table. 
  • Employ dehumidifiers in the home if humidity is regularly elevated.
  • Insulate cold surfaces like walls, floors and windows.
  • Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens and let them run long enough that you don’t see condensation on mirrors or walls.
  • Improve circulation in the home by using ceiling fans.
  • Above all else, mitigate water damage immediately.  Mold cannot grow without moisture. 

If you suspect water or mold damage in your home, call Lightning Restoration for a free evaluation & estimate.  Stay safe and healthy Tampa Bay.