Will Mould Spread?
Mould growth in properties is a common issue in buildings. Mould is normally introduced into houses and buildings through organic material on clothing and shoes that can be carried indoors. With a regular cleaning schedule and frequent dusting, this kind of mould will not cause issues. Mould is more prone to spreading if it is left untreated or unnoticed for some time. It is more likely to grow and begin reproducing in dark, damp environments and can easily spread to other areas of a building in some situations. A professional mould cleaner will have experience in removing mould that has spread by performing mould sampling to establish where it is present. Mould will spread if left untreated.
What Are The Effects Of Mould?
Mould is a type of fungi that grows on surfaces with sufficient moisture and time. There are adverse health affects associated with mould when humans and animals are exposed to it via direct contact, ingestion or inhalation. Some of the main side effects from exposure to mould are listed below. Given the adverse health affects from exposure to mould it is important to check your home after heavy rainfall or indoor flooding to prevent adverse side effects to anyone within the house.
- Weakened immune systems
- Allergies
- Chronic, obstructive or allergic lung disease
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
- Sneezing or coughing fits
- Nasal congestion
The Most Common Types Of Mold Found Inside Houses
Aspergillus: This is one of the most common types of mould found on structures with properties. The colour can range from brown, green, yellow, grey, white or black and you may find it growing on walls.
Cladosporium: This is another type of mould that is found inside houses and properties and has the ability to grow in cooler climates too. It has the classic black or dark green colour and usually starts to grow on wooden items and within carpets.
Penicillium: This type of blue/green mould can grow and develop on most surfaces and structures that have been in contact with moisture for a sustained period of time. These spores, like the other types of mould, can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation when inhaled by accident. It’s usually found in carpets, walls, ceilings and items that have been in contact with water.
Stachybotrys chartarum: This mould is one of the most dangerous types of mould as it can product toxic compounds that cause severe adverse health outcomes for those who have inhaled or made contact with it. It is often referred to as ‘Black Mould’ and will have a strong, musty smell that will thrive in lowly lit and ventilated areas within properties including in the bathrooms, kitchens, pipes and basements.
What Should I Do If I Find Mould In My House?
If you suspect there is mold growing inside your property you should arrange for a mould technician to attend your property and conduct mould sampling and analyses. It’s best to act quickly in these situations because once you notice the first signs of mould it may have already infiltrated and damaged materials in your home, compromising its structure. There are certified mould technicians available in all areas. If you are in Melbourne, Victoria or any of the surrounding suburbs call Kleen-Tech on 1300 305 030. All our mould technicians are available for immediate callout to anywhere in Melbourne or the surrounding suburbs within the hour.