People are often alarmed by the prevalence of green, yellow, black, or brown spots in their homes. While these are some of the most commonly sighted signs of mold growth, there is another color to be aware of. Like black molds, white molds are common in commercial spaces. Little scientific evidence shows white mold is as hazardous as black mold. However, prolonged exposure to it can adversely affect human health and the life of a structure.
Gathering information about white molds is essential to maintaining a healthy home atmosphere. This blog post will explore their types and causes and address some preventive measures and remedies.
Types of White Mold
Four types of white mold are commonly sighted in commercial places.
- Aspergillus grows in damp areas of your home. It is a white mold but can also be present in colors like green and yellow.
- Penicillium feeds on organic matter and is commonly found in wood and paper. It is white or blue-green in appearance and is known for its quick growth. Therefore, early detection and remediation are advised.
- Cladosporium grows on damp, water-damaged surfaces. It can be white, brown, or black in appearance. It often grows on materials and surfaces like wood, carpets, or fabrics.
- Fusarium is a white mold that appears white or slightly pink. They commonly inhabit plants and soil, feeding on house plants and causing early decay.
What Causes White Mold?
There are many reasons why white molds grow; however, three elements aid their development. The presence of moisture, organic material, and warmth in homes provides a breeding ground for white mold. Some of the significant causes of white mold include:
- Humidity
Some of your home’s most moist parts include the bathroom, kitchen, and basement, and white mold thrives in these areas.
- Water Leaks
It must be noted that minor leakage persisting in homes can lead to large-scale water damage. Water dripping from pipes, roofs, or windows conveys moisture into ordinarily dry areas. Should these regions get wet, they become ideal habitats for white mold.
- Lack of Ventilation
Poor airing makes the house damp, encouraging mold growth. Because of their high humidity, bathrooms, and kitchens typically warrant proper air ventilation.
- Condensation
Of course, to effectively battle the cold, one must remain in a warm home. Insulation in the right way minimizes the formation of condensed water, hence decreasing mildews that aid the formation of molds.
Tips to Prevent White Mold
To avoid the development of white mold, management and reduction of moisture are the first pieces of advice that may be given. Here are some effective strategies to keep white molds at bay:
- According to climatologists, ideal indoor humidity levels range between 30% and 50%. To maintain an ideal relative humidity level at home, turn on a humidifier or an air conditioner.
- Frequently check pipe fittings, roofs, and windows for leaks. If you spot any leaks, repair them immediately to avoid further moisture buildup.
- Install exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to maintain the proper moisture level. Open windows and doors to allow airflow throughout the home.
- While constructing homes or remodeling existing ones, select suitable products devoid of mold, such as mold-resistant drywall or paint.
- See that areas containing water, such as the bathroom, kitchen, and basements, are well-cleaned and well-drained. These are the areas most prone to effectively holding moisture. Make it a habit to check the dirtiest spaces, like under the sinks and behind the appliances.
How to Get Rid of White Mold?
One should act quickly if one finds the emergence of white molds in your home. Common white household mold must be cleaned, and efforts must be made to ensure it does not spread to other items and parts of the house. Some of the effective mold removal remedies include:
- Wear thick hand gloves, a well-fitted face mask or hood, and goggles to minimize the chances of getting infected with mold spores.
- Find out the root cause of the moist area or event. Certain precautions must be taken to reduce humidity and thus eliminate the mold problem.
- Cover the affected area with plastic sheets with a view of sealing the area in cases of flooding. This will limit the spread of mold spores in the house since they quickly grow in areas with high humidity.
- Prepare a bucket of one part water and three parts detergent. Wash and sanitize the nonporous infected parts well. Regrettably, replacing porous materials such as drywall and carpets is the only way out.
- Add one cupful of the bleach to one gallon of water. This mixture is to be used to rinse the surface. Leave the solution for 15 minutes, then wash the surface with plain water.
- Dry the affected area using fans and dehumidifiers. Ensure that there is no moisture left behind.
- Pack contaminated materials like clothes and plastic sheets used to clean the affected area. Discard them immediately.
Need of a Professional for Mold Removal
We agree that small mold infestations are easy to handle, and homeowners do not need an expert to remove them. However, larger mold infestations are persistent and cause a lot of problems. Call for professional mold remediation experts as soon as you notice these situations:
- If the mold extent is greater than or equal to 10 sq. feet.
- If you or any family members suffer from diseases like bronchial asthma, allergies, or weak immune system.
- If the mold recurs after the necessary steps have been taken.
- In hidden mold situations, you feel mold is present because of a musty smell but cannot see it.
Conclusion
White molds are usually an issue that may be easily solved, yet often, a homeowner needs to find out what the problem is before they can effectively apply a solution. The name of the mold gives it away; it should be white, although it is typically pink, blue, or green. Reducing humidity is another way to prevent white molds from growing in your home. Be aware of mold formation, avoid causing more exposures, and use service providers like ServeKings to help eradicate this problem if it is massive.
