Reducing Mold Spores in Your Home

LWA mold spore in the home house
If you suffer from asthma, you may have heard that mold can contribute to your symptoms. Molds are a kind of fungus. There are over 100,000 types of mold, but they all generally behave in the same manner. These microorganisms consume organic materials. Mold reproduces by creating microscopic seeds, known as spores. Mold spores are constantly floating in the air. When they land on a moist surface, they begin to digest it and release more spores. Mold and moisture go hand in hand.

Mold and Asthma

Mold spores can trigger asthma symptoms. When the spores are inhaled, they can irritate the airways, causing the wheezing and breathing problems characteristic of an asthma attack. The more mold spores in the air in your home, the more likely it is that mold will impact your asthma. There is no way to completely eliminate mold from your home. What you can do is reduce it and take steps to reduce its impact on your asthma.
 
Mold is tough stuff. With moisture, will grow on nearly any surface. It thrives most easily on porous surfaces, such as wallpaper or wood. In the right conditions, however, it will grow on harder surfaces, like bathroom tiles or metal radiators. (Mold has even been found growing on dynamite—it is very resilient). Therefore, reducing mold requires you to be to be tough as well.

Where Mold Lives

Mold thrives in damp environments, so first and foremost you must control the moisture in your home. Keep all surfaces dry and clean up any wetness that occurs. Keep a particular eye on these potential sources of mold:
  • Appliances that produce damp air or water
  • basements
  • bathroom surfaces
  • gutters and grain pipes
  • underneath sinks.

Steps You Can Take to Combat Mold

Keep bathrooms dry by running a fan or opening a window during and after showers. A steamy bathroom is a haven for mold, so be sure to get air circulating and the room dried as soon as possible. If mold does form, remove it immediately and then dry the surface. Remove moldy wallpaper. If you decide to retile or repaint your bathroom, be sure that all surfaces are dry and mold free. Covering mold will not eliminate the problem.
 
Leaky plumbing conditions can also provide a place for mold to grow. Check all pipe connections, and place non-porous surfaces underneath sinks. Monitor these areas regularly and keep them dry.
 
Gutters and drainpipes on your roof should be in working order and not directing rainwater onto your house or foundation. Drainpipes should be extended and aimed away from your house. If the runoff is released too close to your foundation, it can encourage mold growth on the cement and in your basement.
 
Basements are notoriously musty. The difference in temperature and humidity between the basement and living areas of your home can create an excellent environment for mold to grown. Reducing mold in the cellar can be tricky. Your best bet is to install a dehumidifier. If you do, be sure to empty the water collection tray regularly.
 
Lastly, double check the appliances that produce damp air or water. Clothes dryer vents should be aimed away from your home. Dishwashers and air conditioners are also likely culprits. Keep them in good repair and watch for leaks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mold

Q: Should I have my home tested for mold?

A: No, if you can see or smell mold you have it. Focus on its removal and future prevention.

Q: I’ve cleaned and cleaned but my basement smells musty. What can I do?

A: Mold can never be completely eliminated. Look for any hidden pockets and be sure to invest in a de-humidifier.

Q: I rent my apartment. Who should I call about a serious mold?

A: If the mold is beyond your cleaning capabilities, call you landlord.
 
Resources
 
Asthma Society of Canada Staff. (2009). Lifestyle. Retrieved March 14, 2009, from the Mayo Clinic Web site: http://www.asthma.ca/adults/lifestyle/exercise.php.
 
Environmental Protection Agency. (2008). A Brief guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved March 15, 2009, from the EPA Web site: http://www.epa.gov/mold/preventionandcontrol.html.
 
Environmental Protection Agency. (2009). Indoor environmental asthma triggers. Retrieved March 15, 2009, from the EPA Web site: http://www.epa.gov/asthma/molds.html.
 
Envirotenn Staff. (no date). How to prevent and/or reduce mold in your home. Retrieved March 15, 2009, from the Envirotenn Web site: http://www.envirotenn.com/prevention.php.
 
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2008). Asthma. Retrieved March 15, 2009, from the Mayo Clinic Web site: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/asthma/DS00021.
 
Washington State Department of Health. (2008). Got mold? Frequently asked questions about mold. Retrieved March 15, 2009, from the Washington State Department of Health Web site: http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/ts/IAQ/GOT_Mold.html.