Mold: You can't always see it, but it's there, thriving in the dark, moist corners of your basement or creeping under your family room carpet.
It can hide and go undetected until some unsuspecting person smells it, notices a damp spot or stain, or begins to feel its presence with the onset of asthma attacks, allergic reactions and other respiratory issues.
Mold can attack wood, paper and even carpet - almost anything that holds moisture. But you can help prevent mold from growing in your home by controlling indoor moisture and water leaks.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers these facts about mold and tips on what to do about it:
* There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
* Reduce indoor humidity (below 60 percent) to decrease mold growth by venting clothes dryers, kerosene heaters and other moisture-generating appliances to the outside.
* You can reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces - such as windows, piping, exterior walls, roof or floors - by adding insulation.
* In the bathroom, run the fan or open the window when showering or bathing.
* When needed, use air conditioners and de-humidifiers and use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing or cleaning.
* Clean and repair roof gutters regularly to prevent water leaks.
* Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
* Keep refrigerator and air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
* Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
* Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles or carpet may need to be replaced.
* Fix the source of the water problem or leak, or mold growth will recur.
Remember, mold can be found almost anywhere; it can grow on virtually any substance, as long as moisture is present.
For more information on protecting your home from mold, log on to www.epa.gov/mold. - NU |
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