Things to Know About MOLD
The information in this article has been taken and summarized from an article written by Steve Rodriguez and published in the Realty Times in July of 2007. I feel it is important for us to know, recognize and understand the issues concerning mold and how it may affect us in our homes, especially if you are considering SELLING your home.1. Molds are EVERYWERE and have been around forever. It is our "awareness" of the presence of mold that has changed. Mold is nothing to fear, but to focus on eliminating it, preventing it and controlling it. Just how do we do that?
2. Use common sense (duh....). That means, reduce indoor humidity by venting bathrooms, dryers. Use air conditioners, dehumidifiers, increase the ventilation in the home. Use exhaust fans. Add insulation to surfaces that attract condensation such as windows, piping, roofs, floors, etc. Excessive exposure to mold can cause problems for people with athsma, or babies or elderly people or people who have chronic pulmonary disorders.
3. You cannot "spot" the toxic or black mold by looking at it. Most molds are black or dark green in color - and laboratory testing is the only way to determine if the mold is the type that can be harmful to ones health.
4. Mold can be cleaned and corrected. If you find mold on a non-porous surface, it can be cleaned with a 1 to 16 ratio of bleach to water (be sure to open a window or have good ventilation, wear rubber gloves and eye protection). If the area containing mold is larger than 10 feet you should consult the EPA's guide entitled, "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings" or call 1-800-438-4318. If the affected area is porous, remove it and throw it away. Again, if the area is extensive you will need to contact professionals to remove the materials. Be sure to NEVER mix household cleaners. Mixed chemicals can make toxic combinations - gases, bad fumes, explosions, etc.
Remember, you are not the mold expert - get the home professionally inspected - and if you are selling, it is BEST to do it BEFORE placing the house on the market for sale, or as soon as the mold (or suspected mold) is discovered!
I hope this has shed some light for you about mold. Feel free to respond, add suggestions or comments. They are welcome. Thank you!
posted by St Lucie Homes on the Treasure Coast @ 8/12/2007 11:24:00 PM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home