What is Mould?
Moulds are microscopic organisms, or fungi, found
virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Although they
are a part of the natural environment, moulds are undesirable
when they grow where we don’t want them, such as
in homes. Over 270 species of mould have been identified
as living in Canadian homes.
Moulds are always found in the air outside and inside
all buildings. They come into the home in many ways -
through open windows or doors, on clothing, pets, food
or furniture. The problems start when mould grows inside
the home. Mould has the potential to cause adverse heath
affects, as well as property damage.
What are the warning signs of possible
mould growth?
Discoloration is a sign of mould. However, all
discolouration is not due to mould. Carpeting near baseboards,
for example, can be stained by outdoor pollution entering
the home.
Mould may be any colour: black, white, red, orange, yellow,
blue or violet. Dab a drop of household bleach onto a
suspected spot. If the stain loses its colour or disappears,
it may be mould. If there is no change, it probably isn’t
mould. Sometimes moulds are hidden and cannot be seen.
A musty or earthy smell often indicates the presence of
moulds. But a smell may not be present for all moulds.
Even if a smell is not evident, wet spots, dampness or
water leaks are indications of moisture problems and mould
may follow.
Getting Rid of Mould
It is impossible to get rid of all mould and mould spores
indoors. Some mould spores will be found floating through
the air and in house dust. Because mould can never be
completely removed, professional use the term ‘abatement’
when describing mould removal.
However, the mould spores will not grow if moisture is
not present. By controlling the moisture level inside
the home, indoor mould growth can be prevented. Once mould
growth is located inside the home, it is important to
act quickly. Mould damages what it grows on, and the longer
it grows, the more damage it can cause.
In all situations, the underlying cause of water accumulation
must be corrected or mould growth will recur. To dispose
of mould and prevent re-growth, seek professional help
and control the moisture in the home.
Seeking Professional Help
The Canadian Mortgage Housing Corporation (CMHC) recommends
seeking professional help when there is an extensive amount
of mould and the home is very damp and moist. Professional
help will also be required if mould comes back after repeated
cleaning and if a family member suffers from asthma or
respiratory problems or other health problems that appear
to be aggravated inside the home.
Moisture Control
Mould needs moisture to grow. Controlling
the moisture and keeping the home dry prevents the growth
of mould. Check the home for signs of moisture and moulds.
Moisture is produced in the home through daily activities
like bathing, washing clothes or cooking. High moisture
levels can be the result of water coming in from the outside,
through the floor, walls or roof; of from plumbing leaks.
Moisture can also accumulate within the home when there
is not enouch ventilation to expel the excess water. The
most common sources for moisture that can develop are
roof, walls or basement leaks.
For
further information: info@crea.ca or by telephone, (613)
234-2567
