Let’s talk about Mold. I know…it’s gross! But the fact is, mold is a very dangerous substance that can mean big problems for your family’s health.
Moisture problems in basements and crawl spaces are very common, and since moisture control is the key to preventing mold, the most important step in solving a mold problem is to identify and correct the source of the moisture.
First, you must understand where the water is coming from, and what is permitting it to enter the basement. There are just three sources of moisture:
1. Liquid water from rain or ground-water.
2. Interior moisture sources such as humidifiers, unvented clothes dryers, bathrooms, and cooking, as well as the moisture in concrete after construction.
3. Exterior humid air that enters the basement and condenses on cooler surfaces.
Your home must be inspected to determine the source of the moisture. Remember, mold needs 4 things to grow: mold spores (present in all indoor and outdoor air), nutrients (contained in most building materials), temperatures between 40-100 F, and moisture. Of these four factors, moisture is the one thing you can control.
In addition to the rot and decay mold can cause to your home’s structure, another important thing to consider is the effect it has on your family’s health. Dampness and mold in homes is associated with increases in upper respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, asthma exacerbation, development of new asthma, and bronchitis; in addition to headaches, nose and throat irritation, dizziness and nausea.
Protect your home…and your family’s health, by addressing moisture problems before they become serious health issues.
At Foundation Systems of Michigan, we can help you with a solution for controlling mold, rot,andhumidity in your home. Our warranted products can seal your basement or crawl space from outside humidity, while our ENERGY STAR® rated dehumidifiers keep your space dry and healthier than ever.
We’ve been helping Michigan homeowners fix damp, moldy spaces for years, and we have the experience and products you need to keep your space healthy.
