Water-Damaged Homes May Harbor Mold Problem

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May 26, 2007

Water-Damaged Homes May Harbor Mold Problem

http://presszoom.com/story_131978.html

Mold growth is likely to occur in water-damaged homes. It's very important to

quickly clean and thoroughly dry any areas of the home that have gotten wet.

Failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can

present serious long-term health risks.

(PressZoom) - Mold growth is likely to occur in water-damaged homes. It's very

important to quickly clean and thoroughly dry any areas of the home that have

gotten wet. Failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and

humidity can present serious long-term health risks.

Mold - What Is It?

Molds are simple microscopic organisms found virtually everywhere, indoors and

outdoors. When molds are present in large quantities they can cause allergic

symptoms similar to those caused by plant pollen.

Should I Be Concerned About Mold In My Home?

Yes, if the contamination is extensive. When airborne mold spores are present in

large numbers they can cause allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections,

and other respiratory problems.

Who Is At Greatest Risk When Exposed To Mold?

The following individuals are at higher risk for adverse health affects from

molds:

Infants, children and the elderly

Immune compromised individuals ( people with HIV infection, liver disease, in

chemotherapy, etc )

Pregnant women

Individuals with existing respiratory conditions such as allergies, multiple

chemical sensitivity, and asthma

People with these conditions should consult a physician if they are experiencing

health problems.

Typical symptoms reported from mold exposure include respiratory problems ( like

wheezing and asthma attacks ), burning or watery eyes, nose or throat

irritations, skin irritations like rashes or hives, and nervous system disorders

like headaches, memory loss and mood changes.

What Can I Save? What Should I Toss?

Porous materials can trap molds. Items such as paper, rags, wallboard, and

rotten wood should be thrown out. Harder materials such as glass, plastic and

metal can be kept after they are cleaned and disinfected.

Removing Moldy Materials

Wear a filter mask and gloves to avoid contact with the mold.

Remove porous materials ( ex: ceiling tiles, Sheet-rock, carpeting, wood

products ).

Carpeting can be a difficult problem - drying does not remove the dead spores.

If there is heavy mold, disposal of the carpet should be considered.

Allow areas to dry two to three days before replacing damaged materials.

If Sheetrock, or wallboard, is flooded, remove all Sheetrock to at least 12

inches above the high water mark.

General Mold Clean-Up Procedures

Identify and correct the moisture source. Remove all water and fix any leaks

before cleaning.

Clean, disinfect, and dry the moldy area.

Bag and dispose of any material that has moldy residue, such as rags, paper,

leaves or debris.

Soap Cleanup

Wear protective gloves, a filter mask, and eye protection.

Use non-ammonia soap or detergent, or a commercial cleaner in hot water. Scrub

the entire area affected by the mold.

Use a stiff brush or cleaning pad.

Rinse with clean water.

Disinfect Surfaces

Wear a filter mask and protective gloves when using disinfectants.

After thorough cleaning and rinsing, disinfect the area with a solution of 10

percent household bleach ( 1 1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water ).

Never mix bleach with ammonia - the fumes are toxic!

Let disinfected areas dry naturally overnight to kill all the mold.

Be aware that exposure to mold can occur during cleanup. To minimize exposure,

consider using a breathing mask or respirator, wear rubber gloves and take

breaks in a well-ventilated area.

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