What
is Mould?
Moulds'
are microscopic organisms found virtually everywhere, indoors, and outdoors.
Mould spores are tiny, lightweight, and easily detached by airflow, vacuuming,
walking on a carpet or sitting on a couch. In indoor environments, they grow in air-conditioning ducts, carpets, pots of household plants, etc. They
produce and release millions of spores, which are small enough to stay airborne
threatening to invade the human respiratory system. Mould growths can often be
seen in the form of discoloration, ranging from white to orange and from green
to brown and black. In large quantities, moulds can cause allergic symptoms
similar to those caused by plant pollen. In order for mould to grow, it needs
food sources (such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt), a source of moisture, and a
place to grow.
The
Truth about Mould
Mould
becomes a problem inside a home when there's excessive humidity or moisture. The
problem can originate from sudden water releases, like a burst pipe or large
spill, or a chronic condition such as a leaking roof or plumbing. Even high
humidity or warm, moist air condensing on cool surfaces can trigger mould
problems. It's always best to have the mould assessed and removed by a certified
professional.
Mould can grow almost anywhere in a home if conditions
permit. If there is visible growth on painted wall surfaces, a homeowner should
be concerned about what may be growing on the opposite side. The environment
inside the walls of a house often differs drastically from the outside and could
create a perfect haven for mould. If the wall was wet for a prolonged period,
it's almost guaranteed that the mould growth on the back side will be worse than
on the front. At that point, containing the work space and removing mouldy
materials, followed by cleaning of salvageable framing, are the best options.
It
is recommended that homeowners contact a certified professional to ensure that
mould is removed correctly and occupants are protected throughout the job.
Typically, to contain and prevent further contamination, certified professionals
can:
1. Verify that the moisture source has been eliminated or
repaired
2. Contain the area to prevent cross contamination
3.
Create negative pressure using specialized air filtration devices to prevent
mould spores from spreading to unaffected areas
4. Recommend an indoor
environmental professional to sample and evaluate the mould problem
5.
Vacuum affected areas using equipment with high efficiency filters
6.
Isolate, remove and properly dispose of heavily contaminated materials
7.
HEPA vacuum exposed pockets of growth
8. Dry materials, using procedures
outlined in IICRC S500 Standard for Mould Remediation
Correct
inspecting or testing, followed by professional remediation, is the key to
preventing continued mould growth in a home.
