What is Mold?
Molds, members of the fungus family, are microscopic living organisms that are found virtually everywhere in our environment. To grow, molds need a food source, a certain temperature range, oxygen and moisture. When and where the proper conditions are present, mold spores (think of them as seeds) can germinate and form colonies. Spores can germinate in as little as 12 hours and grow into mold colonies in just 24 to 48 hours.
Commercial buildings offer an ample food supply for mold – with drywall, wood, insulation, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, carpeting, dust and debris all present. When these materials become damp or wet from floods, structural water leaks, plumbing leaks, condensation or excess humidity in the air – mold spores in the environment begin growing into mold colonies.
Four Main Causes of Mold Growth:
- Foundation (or Basement) Water Infiltration
- Roof/Building Envelope Leaks
- Plumbing Leaks
- Uncontrolled Humidity
The presence of mold within retail spaces, office buildings, multi-family units, homes, and other commercial buildings can have serious impacts on the health of its occupants. Prolonged exposure to certain types of mold can cause several health issues like throat irritation, nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, coughing, wheezing and more. When you have the presence of mold within your structure, controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping further spore growth.
In general, its recommended to have your roof inspected at least 2 times per year. You can do a visual self-check on a shingled roof to see if there is anything you notice in addition to hiring a professional to check it out for you if you are concerned. Once during the spring and once during the fall are perfect times to have this done. It is recommended flat roofs be professionally inspected every two to three years.
Mold Prevention Tips:
While Loyear Disaster Restoration can help you with any mold remediation issues you may have - we’d like to give you some helpful tips that you can implement into your daily life to ensure you don’t ever need to call us.
Here are 3 quick tips to ensure mold doesn’t become an issue in your building:
1) Make Sure Water is Directed Away from Your Structure
- Fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Visually inspect shingled roofs twice a year and have flat roofs professionally inspected every 2 to 3 years. Annually do a visual inspection of ceilings on the top floor, areas below windows, near plumbing fixtures and foundation walls.
2) Maintain Humidity Levels Below 50%
- Paying particular attention to lower levels where humidity is more likely to be an issue. Run your HVAC system to heat and cool spaces even when unoccupied to avoid high humidity levels and condensation. Install bath fans that automatically turn on with lights and are on a timer to evacuate humid air. Make sure heating appliances and dryers are vented properly.
3) Keep Surfaces Clean
Mold requires organic material to feed on and grow. Be aware of guests and building occupants' habits. Many people prefer humid environments, but it often doesn’t take long before there’s condensation and mold on exterior walls particularly in cold Climates.
Loyear Can Help with Remediation:
At Loyear Disaster Restoration, we understand that the presence of mold can be a serious health risk to your family, residents, clients, employees and even yourself. A quick response is necessary to limit mold spread and damage that can lead to costly repairs or replacements. We work quickly to contain the spread of mold and remove any contaminants to ensure you can get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.
During the remediation process, we use state of the art equipment to clean and dry your property to ensure mold does not return. Our emergency response team is on call and prepared 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - even on holidays to handle water damage emergencies. We are by your side in 60 minutes or less; walking you through the restoration process.
Contact Loyear Disaster Restoration Services, LLC for the mold remediation services that you can count on!
Share On: