Mould spores can trigger allergy reactions and irritate the skin, eyes and nose. Those with a weak immune system or pre-existing respiratory conditions can be particularly susceptible to symptoms over prolonged exposure.
Wall mould growth often indicates moisture and ventilation problems in a property. A thorough inspection and analysis of the problem is required to define the underlying issue and stop it returning.
Health Risks
Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp areas and can have a musty or earthy smell. It is a common problem in homes and can cause respiratory infections, eye irritation, and rashes on the skin. It can be dangerous for people with weak immune systems, especially infants and elderly people.
Mould spores are airborne and can be inhaled by anyone, but some people are more sensitive to them than others. Inhaling them can trigger an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals, which may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and skin rash. Some people may also have asthma attacks.
Those who live in mouldy houses or workplaces should be aware of the health risks and take steps to prevent their spread. Mould is particularly dangerous for the elderly, infants and those with chronic respiratory problems, like asthma or eczema. It can also be harmful for immunocompromised people, such as chemotherapy patients.
Visible Mould
Moisture is the key to mould growth and it can be hidden in nooks and crannies such as behind surface finishes, in voids and within stud partitions. When this happens, it can be difficult to spot and even more dangerous to health.
There are more than 100,000 species of mould in existence and each can come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and textures. It could be fuzzy, powdery, velvety or slimy. Mold spores can also be airborne and when you breathe in these they can trigger respiratory problems, allergies and other illnesses.
The most common type of mould found in homes is mildew. This is usually caused by condensation and lack of ventilation. Daily activities such as showering, drying clothes and cooking, all cause water vapour and condensation to build up in the property without it being ventilated properly. If not treated, this will lead to visible mildew or black mould. This can be very difficult to remove and may require professional remediation treatment.
Damage to the Fabric
Molds grow on fabrics because they like a warm, moist environment. They can also grow on drywall and other materials that are damaged by water damage. The most common moulds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Penicillium. They look like discoloration or stains on a fabric and can have different textures.
Mould can be hard to get rid of. Although washing the fabric with hot water will kill most of the spores, it won’t completely remove them. A more effective way to clean the fabric is to soak it in a mixture of bleach and water. Then, wash it with regular detergent.
Vacuuming the fabric with a close nozzle is also helpful. However, it is best to do this in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. This will ensure that the spores are not sucked back into the textile. Lastly, it is important to avoid humid areas when storing clothes. This will prevent mould growth and improve air quality in the home.
Cost
Mould can be a serious health issue for those living in damp properties. It is not only disgusting to look at, but it can also cause a wide range of issues including breathing difficulties, skin rashes and nausea. It can even lead to cancer in some cases. Mould growth is usually caused by a moisture problem within the property and this can be caused by flooding, leaks or damage to roofs and windows.
The cost of mould removal depends on a variety of factors, including the type and extent of damage, the location of the property and the difficulty of accessing hard-to-reach areas. It is also important to consider the labour prices in your area, as these can vary across the UK. For example, the cost of structure drying is generally higher in London than elsewhere in the country. A professional mould remediation expert will conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property and will provide a transparent quote.mould removal london