Mold Facts and Information

2/23/2016 (Permalink)

Fernandina Beach/Yulee and North Jacksonville Mold Remediation Experts

Can Mold Be a Problem in My Fernandina Beach or North Jacksonville Home?

     Yes. Molds will grow where conditions allow. Molds require two things to grow – a food source and moisture. Food sources can be anything from dry wall and insulation to carpeting or mattresses. Moisture can come from many sources, including high humidity levels, leaky pipes or appliance hoses, neglected or inadequately repaired roofs, improperly maintained air conditioners, landscape and drainage problems, etc.

Should I be Concerned About Mold in My Home?

     Yes. Indoor mold growth is unsanitary and undesirable. If you can see or smell mold inside your home, you should take steps to eliminate the cause and clean up and remove the mold. If left unchecked mold growth can cause health effects and structural damage to your home.

What is "Black Mold"?

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold. For more information about "black mold" please visit the link below.

SERVPROfernandinabeachyulee.com/black-mold

Are Molds a Health Concern?

Quite possibly. According to the Centers for Disease Control, exposure to mold does not necessarily result in a health problem. 

     While many people seldom experience ill effects from mold exposure, it can cause health effects in others. 

What Can I Do to Prevent Mold From Growing in My Home?

Since mold needs a food source and moisture to grow, the best thing you can do is to prevent moisture problems that allow mold to grow.

• Maintain lower levels of humidity in your home (preferably between 30-50%) by: venting bathrooms and dryers to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation by adding crawlspace and attic vents; using exhaust fans when cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning, etc.
• Add insulation to reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces such as windows, pipes, exterior walls, roofs, or floors.
• Inspect your home regularly for indications and sources of indoor moisture such as leaking pipes, appliance hoses, showers, tubs, sinks and toilets. Replace plastic hoses with steel-reinforced hoses. Check windows, doors, attics and ceilings for leaks or evidence of water stains or odors, particularly after rains. Fix plumbing, flashing, and roof leaks right away.
• Don't carpet bathrooms, basements, kitchens or other areas prone to moisture. Clean bathrooms often and keep surfaces dry.
• Cover dirt in crawlspaces with a moisture barrier plastic sheeting.
• Prevent water from entering basements and crawlspaces by repairing holes and cracks in walls and foundation. Use landscaping to direct water away from your foundation.
• Clean and maintain your gutters and make sure drainpipes carry water several feet away from your home.
• Watch your utility bills. An abnormally high water bill could signal a water leak.
• Before you travel, turn off the water at the main valve. Have a trusted friend or neighbor check the inside and outside of your home periodically while you're away.

     If you think you may have a mold issue or signs of mold growth in your home call SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Yulee today. For more mold information tips and Mold Remediation Services visit SERVPRO Mold Damage Emergency Tips or call (904) 729-2401

**This information is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any health concerns regarding mold contact your doctor immediately**