Interesting Facts about Mold in Your Home, Part 1

May 3, 2018

Outdoors, mold and mildew are an essential part of the ecosystem, where they play an important role in material biodegradation. Just as penicillin kills bacteria, mold decomposes organic matter, enables decay and rot, which are necessary for the proper functioning of an ecosystem. Indoors, however, mold is something that should be avoided. No homeowner wants their space invaded by these fungi. Luckily, experienced mold removal Irvine specialists can help you get rid of these persistent tiny creatures that love moisture and spread fast in damp or humid areas.

If you are an avid reader of our blog, you probably know that mold spores can affect not only your house but also your health. Here are a few facts that your trusted mold removal Irvine experts would like you to know!

Molds are experts in hiding

Only because you can’t see mold, it doesn’t mean it’s not there. With the right conditions – moisture, organic matter (food) and any temperature between 41 and 100 degrees of Fahrenheit, mold will start growing within 24 to 48 hours. It can be found behind walls and leaky appliances, within insulation… it can even inhabit your HVAC system!

Mold can grow anywhere that is dark, damp and moist so visible leaks are not the only ones you should pay attention to; hidden leaks also pose a threat. This is when certified mold removal Irvine technicians can step in to perform a comprehensive mold inspection, as well as safe and reliable mold removal.

Mold can cause a number of health issues

Indoor exposure to mold is linked to asthma, allergic rhinitis, and upper respiratory tract symptoms, such as sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy and red skin or eyes, etc. People who are allergic to mold and those with a weakened immune system can develop severe reactions to mold exposure and are more likely to get mold infections.

Exposure to mold is also associated with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), a condition that encompasses a vast range of health issues triggered by a toxin. What’s more, there is a link between mold and cancer, miscarriage, multiple sclerosis, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), etc.

Stachybotrys chartarum, the so-called toxic black mold, is one of the most dangerous and infamous species because it produces mycotoxins, which can cause black mold poisoning, serious symptoms and severe health issues.

There are more than 10,000 species of mold

There are over 10,000 species of mold but only a small subset of these varieties are commonly found indoors.

Most household mold belongs to one of these five types:

  • Alternaria,
  • Aspergillus,
  • Cladosporium,
  • Penicillium, and
  • Stachybotrys chartarum.

Indoor mold can also be classified into three hazard classes (hazard class A, B and C) depending on the health risk. Presence of Aspergillus, Stachybotrys chartarum and other types of hazard class A mold requires immediate action because these species are considered highly dangerous to human health.

The hazard class B mold, like Alternaria and Penicillium, can cause allergic reactions, while mold that belongs to hazard class C poses the least health risks but it should be removed due to structural damage it can cause.

Mold removal Irvine homeowners rely on!

Prevent mold and mildew from spreading in your house with Emergency Home Solutions, the most trusted full-service restoration company in Orange County! EHS provides the most effective and reliable mold removal Irvine can offer!

We offer unparalleled emergency plumbing, water damage, mold inspection and removal services to Orange County homeowners. Our experienced and skilled technicians are available 24/7, 365 days per year. To hire our services, call us at (949) 916-0549 – anytime!