How to Reduce Mold Growth

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth resulting from water leak.

Mold is ubiquitous, meaning it is present in the environment and is a natural occurrence. The goal is to prevent mold from growing to a state potentially proving harmful to occupants in a building.

When is mold harmful to humans? While there are no current federal standards for what may be harmful to someone, there are methods to determine when actions are required to reduce the amount present. Mold testing is one method. Servrpo of Fayetteville does provide mold testing.
Factors when determining whether actions may be required include, but are not limited to: age of occupants, health concerns, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Before the need for additional steps is required to reduce mold presence, an understanding of how mold grows may assist in the prevention of removal.

In general, mold requires three components. Food, moisture, and temperature. Of the three one is the most controllable. Mold can grow in a wide variety of food sources. It is easy to overlook some as a food source. Mold can also grow in a wide range of temperatures. The third component, moisture, is the component to focus on to prevent excessive mold growth.

Sources of moisture include, but are not limited to roof leaks, water leaks in the home (ice make supply lines, washing machine supply lines, plumbing lines supply fixtures, elevated moisture in crawlspaces. Slow, ongoing leaks may not be observed initially and present an opportunity for mold to grow undetected. Observe signs of water leaks and determine the source. Once discovered, leaks should be repaired as soon as possible. Additional efforts to reduce moisture levels in building materials may be required once water is discovered. These efforts most often require dehumidification to remove the moisture in a timely period. SERVPRO of Fayetteville is prepared to provide these services.

If visible mold is discovered services to remove require trained personal and special procedures. Procedures include, but are not limited to mold testing, material moisture content readings, developing a site plan, and implementing these plans.

A goal for successful mold removal is to return building materials and indoor environment to a condition equivalent to those present before mold growth occurs. SERVPRO of Fayetteville has the necessary staff and equipment to provide these services.