Life has been a bit different for everyone lately. If you’re deemed “non-essential,” you probably have a lot of time on your hands. This has allowed some people to catch up on their favorite television series, and it has given others the opportunity to pursue hobbies. Home improvement stores have been flooded with people despite orders to stay at home, but there is one home improvement project that easily aligns with social distancing. Instead of watching that television series, get off the couch, and check for mold!
Why Would You Have Mold?
Many houses have mold. Mold spores are everywhere, and when given the opportunity, they will grow into mold colonies. That opportunity is easily presented in homes that have leaky basements or poorly vented attics. Some experts estimate that about half of all residences have a mold problem. It doesn’t mean you are dirty or a terrible member of society. It just means you haven’t properly identified and remedied your mold situation.
Where to Check for Mold
Basements, attics, and anywhere there is plumbing are good places to check for mold. Any breaks in your foundation, crawlspaces, and window trimmings are also good places to look. Mold will grow anywhere it has food, moisture, and air stagnancy. It can basically grow anywhere if the conditions are right, so your individual house will have different at-risk areas. If you have a large mold problem, you should be able to see or smell it.
What to Do If You Find Mold
If you find a very small amount of mold, you may be able to clean it yourself. However, if it covers more than 10 square feet, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that you hire professional mold removal services. If handling it on your own, make sure you identify the source of the moisture and fix it, or the mold will simply return. You may need to invest in a dehumidifier. Mold will not grow if humidity is kept between 30% and 50%.
Why Check for Mold Now?
If you think you have a mold problem, you should get it taken care of right away because it will spread. A mold infestation can have severe health consequences on the occupants of the home. Typically, mold leads to respiratory distress for those who are sensitive to it. As the current pandemic is caused by a respiratory illness, it is best not to exacerbate any respiratory issues.