We’ve all heard that April showers bring May flowers, but excess rain also brings the risk of mold growth. Mold is a living organism that thrives in warm, damp, dark places; think the bathroom, kitchen, air conditioning unit, even behind walls and under floors. Mold can cause health issues at any age. It is an allergen and irritant, causing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and rash. Mold can also trigger asthma attacks in those with asthma and are sensitive to mold.
The best way to prevent mold is to prevent moisture. It is important to be on the lookout for leaks in your building following wet weather. It’s also important to make sure plumbing in kitchens and bathrooms is not leaking.
What can you do if you have mold? Health experts do NOT recommend testing indoor air for mold. Time and money are better spent cleaning and controlling the moisture problem because if you don’t, mold will just come back. If the mold is growing on a spot smaller than a 3 feet by 3 feet patch, you can clean the mold yourself by scrubbing the area with detergent and water. If the mold is growing on a spongy surface like carpet or ceiling tiles, those pieces may have to be thrown away. If the mold is growing on a larger area, hire a professional. If you’d like to learn more, we recommend reading EPA’s “Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings.”
