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There's mold in my house. Please help!

October 9, 2002

The above was actually my own question at one time. But it represents a question I hear often.

I want you to hear from Sondra Cooley with National Allergy Supply. Sondra is one of the experts who coached me in my own mold clean-up. Sondra writes:

I field questions from schools and public health departments all over the country on how to detect and eliminate mold. I have learned that there are many types of mold, and that none of them will grow without the presence of moisture.

The key to preventing or getting rid of mold is simply to control the moisture in your environment. I have a list of helpful tips for allergy sufferers and homeowners that I often recommend. It includes:

1. Monitor your home humidity level year round. This can be done with a temperature/relative humidity gauge. If possible, keep the humidity below 60%. Molds will slowly grow at 50% and will not grow at 40%.

2. Routinely check every room of the home for leaks and condensation, especially the roof and basement areas. If leaks are found, act quickly to remove moisture and mold growth. Its takes 24 to 48 hours for most molds to start growing. If the mold is removed, but the moisture problem remains then the mold will most likely return.

3. Proper use of a dehumidifier can be effective in reducing the humidity levels in the home, however, they do require routine cleaning to prevent the spread of bacteria.

4. If mold is found, a plan for clean-up is recommended, and should include the use of proper equipment. Precautions should be taken by the person/persons performing the clean-up. Protective gear such as a mask (N-95 rating), gloves, and goggles should be worn. Always limit the exposure time to mold and mildew.

5. If mold is found in the home in an area larger than 10 square feet an outside contractor maybe needed. The most important tip for homeowners is to locate, identify and remove mold growth quickly.

The products mentioned above are all available on our web site. Click here.

Sondra Cooley
Training and Education Manager
National Allergy Supply

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