Mold: Causes and Hazards

Research has shown that leaking appliances and other water based utilities remain as one of the most significant sources of water waste. In addition to washing machines and dishwashers, refrigerators and dryers now have the possibility to be connected to a water source as well – due to their water and ice dispensers and wrinkle care features respectively.

With the majority of household appliances now connected to a water source, the potential for a leak increases. Leaks can cause significant damage to your household, and induce potential hazardous living conditions – with the main cause for concern being mold.

WHAT IS MOLD?

Mold is a common type of fungus that can be found inside and outside, almost everywhere, year round. It grows best in warm, damp and humid environments, and multiplies using its microscopic spores that travel through the air and attach to various structures and materials.

There are more than 100,000 types and species of mold, some of which are harmless, but some can cause serious health problems. The most common categories of mold, which can affect your health are Allergenic Molds. These types of molds contain allergens, which can cause allergies and other various symptoms in humans.

SYMPTOMS CAUSED BY MOLD

Molds and other fungi grow easily in damp indoor environments. People who spend time in such environments sometimes complain of:

  • Memory problems, brain fog, trouble with focus and executive function
  • Fatigue, weakness, post-exercise malaise and fatigue
  • Muscle cramping, aches, and pains, joint pain without inflammatory arthritis, persistent nerve pain, “ice pick” pain
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Headache
  • Light sensitivity, red eyes, and/or blurred vision
  • Sinus problems, cough, shortness of breath, air hunger, asthma-like symptoms
  • Tremors
  • Vertigo
  • Persistent nerve pain
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, appetite changes
  • Metallic taste
  • Weight gain despite sufficient effort (weight loss resistance)
  • Night sweats or other problems with temperature regulation
  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased urination
  • Static “shocks”

While it is completely normal for a small amount of mold or mildew to appear on shower walls or any other application where water accumulates, mold or mildew growth in room corners or non-shower walls clearly indicates that there is a leak in the surrounding area creating the perfect living and breeding environment.

Mold growth in homes, schools, and businesses should be eliminated to maintain health, structural integrity, and quality of life. Cleaning up small amounts of mold can be done by homeowners. Eliminating mold from large areas requires expertise and protection both for the removal specialists and occupants of the affected space.

DON’T FORGET TO DEAL WITH THE LEAK!

In order to prevent a potential mold outbreak in your home, or to prevent an existing mold issue from escalating further, it is recommended to take care of the leak after the mold issue has been cleaned.

Internally, water faucets, toilets, water valves, household appliances, pipes, and tubes are all among the potential causes of a leak within your household. A plumber will be required to come in, assess the situation further, and locate the cause of the leak. If there is an external leak, please notify city representatives to come in and inspect piping leading to the house, as well as the water meter itself for any potential faults or misreadings.