You’ve heard that mold can be dangerous and hazardous to your health, but there are many things about mold you might not know.
Sometimes mold can be easy to identify by musty odors and dark patches on walls and floors, but that’s not always the case. Here are 6 facts about mold that you might not know.
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There Are More Than 10,000 Species of Mold
Mold comes in so many different species and can be found all over the earth. One of the things about mold that you might not know, however, is that only a handful of species are regularly found indoors. Common indoor mold varieties include Alternaria, Aspergillus (the most common household mold), Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys Chartarum (black mold).
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Mold Can Begin Growing Within 24 Hours
Mold growth only occurs when the environment is right. It requires food, moisture, and a temperature between 60 and 80 degrees. When these conditions are present mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. Growth typically starts in inconspicuous areas of your home and can remain hidden for quite a while, spreading and causing damage to your home and property all the while.
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Mold Can Cause Health Problems
The fact that mold can cause health problems probably isn’t news to you, but there are some lesser-known effects of mold. These include headaches, chronic fatigue, dizziness, blurry vision, and disorientation.
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Not All Mold is Bad
Most people cringe at the idea of any mold being present around them, but the truth is that mold is a staple to our ecosystem. It’s what breaks down discarded food, fallen leaves, and other organic matter and recycles it back into the environment. Mold is used to make some cheeses, soy foods, and medicines like penicillin.
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Water Damage Can Cause Mold Growth
A flood, leak, or burst pipe is a good warning sign that mold might begin growing. It can be extremely difficult to get rid of once it starts, so it’s important to take action to protect your home as soon as water damage occurs. Likewise, if you find signs of mold growth in your home, there’s a good chance you’ve got some hidden water damage. Start searching for the source of the moisture right away.
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Mold is Preventable
Nobody wants to be the victim of mold growth, but as the common saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. There are simple things you can do regularly to make sure no unwanted mold starts growing on your watch:
- Keep air moving in your home. Open windows regularly and always run the bathroon fan while showering.
- Try to stay on top of the humidity in your home. If you live in a very humid area, use a dehumidifier.
- Inspect sinks and pipes regularly.
- Use professional restoration services as soon as possible when water damage occurs.
Black Diamond Water Damage & Disaster Restoration is Here
There are many things about mold that can be concerning, but Black Diamond Water Damage & Disaster Restoration is here to help. If you find yourself with water damage, call us right away. Early treatment is key to restoring your property and preventing mold growth. We serve clients in Salt Lake City, Utah and the neighboring cities including Murrary, Taylorsville, Sandy, and more. We offer 24/7 emergency services so we’ll be ready whenever a disaster occurs. Call us today!
