Mold Prevention

One of the most important things you need to understand is that mold is present everywhere.

Mold is spread when spores become airborne. Spores cannot be seen with the naked eye; Being so small, it takes very little air movement for the spores to relocate and begin the growing process.

Preventing mold spores from entering your home or business is almost impossible. You can however take steps to keep the spores from growing into mould inside your structure.

Mold requires organic material and water to grow. Porous surfaces like drywall and wood are easily susceptible to mould and therefore more difficult to protect.

While mold does not grow on surfaces such as glass, Formica, tile, or metal, it will grow on dirt or other organic debris on these surfaces. It is important to keep these surfaces clean in order to keep them free of mould.

If you suspect that you have or may have had any type of moisture problem, such as a leak, then you may already have a mold contamination issue.  At MSI: we have the knowledge, training and experience to help whether you need a Certified Mould Inspector or a Certified Mould Remediator.  For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact us.

Examples:

Some Examples of signs of a moisture problem that may in the future or may already have caused a mould contamination issue.

Bubbling of paint/drywall around light	Mushroom growing at a baseboard
Mushrooms growing on carpeting	Visible mold growth on furniture
Overflow/back-up of sump pump/pit	Mold growth on personal possessions
Visible moisture on a concrete floor	Visible mold growth on a tile floor

Actions You Can Take:

If mold is a problem in your home, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.  If the mold is more than a localized topical growth such as around a window frame you should have a Certified Mould Inspector perform a complete inspection and you may need the services of a Certified Mould Remediator to perform the remediation.  For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact us.

• Wash topical mould off hard surfaces and dry completely. Absorbent materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be replaced by a professional if they are contaminated with mould.

• Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water.

• Keep drip pans in your air conditioner, refrigerator, and dehumidifier clean and dry.

• Use exhaust fans or open windows in kitchens and bathrooms
when showering, cooking, or using the dishwasher.

• Vent clothes dryers to the outside.

• Maintain low indoor humidity, ideally between 30-50% relative
humidity. Humidity levels can be measured by hygrometers
which are available at local hardware stores.

• Maintain the exterior of your building.  Check flashings, roofing, caulking, drainage, etc. on a regular basis and repair any deficiencies immediately.

Problem?  What Problem?!

Missing caulking at electrical junction box	Missing caulking at door sill and wiring
Downspout draining against the foundation	Missing caulking/seal below door sill
Leakage through foundation at tie rod holes	Mold growth above the attic access door
Mold growth under floor sheathing	Poor grading causing water to pond
Crack in brickwork allowing water into wall	Water under attic insulation due to leak

REMEMBER:  If mold is a problem in your building, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.  This work may require a professional.  If you are uncertain as to what to do then call a professional. 

Contact MouldInspections.ca Today!