Monday, January 2, 2012

Explaining Mold Testing

Mod can be found everywhere around us. You may clean your home as impeccably as you can but there’s no getting rid of these unwanted microscopic house guests. Mold testing your own home is perhaps what you need if you really wish to have a mold-free household.

Mold might seem tiny and inconsequential but it can cause severe illness or allergies without you even realizing that this is happening. Mold is basically made up of microscopic fungi that work in colonies. It is mold that makes food spoil.

Some mold types play an important role in biodegradation, which is the process of chemically dissolving organic materials back into natural elements that are helpful to the environment. Some kinds of mold are used in the production of useful medicines, foods, and beverages. Mold can be useful, but this does not mean that we should forget how dangerous it can be.

It is natural for mold to exist on dead or decaying organic matter. We have all witnessed mold on our old fruits and vegetables, or growing on other food and drinks inside our refrigerators. Mold likes spaces that are damp, dark and warm, so you can expect to find it in your bathroom, kitchen, storage areas, plumbing spaces, basement, and poorly ventilated, humid areas.

In general, black molds, bathroom molds, ceiling molds, wall molds, HVAC vent molds and molds in dust are common in the home. Thankfully, not all varieties of mold are toxic. A leaky tap can be the catalyst for mold infestations, so stop possible growth by reducing moisture as much as possible.

The way that mold gets around is on dust particles that travel freely in your home. Itchy, watery eyes and sneezing are signs that there may be mold in the air. Mold also affects people, causing chronic coughing, headaches, rashes, and difficulty in breathing, sinus problems, and nasal blockage.

Of all the fungal molds, which are particularly harmful to children, Penicillium is the most aggressive and dangerous. Constant exposure can cause your baby to develop asthma and other respiratory problems. If you notice your child sneezing too often without apparent cause, chances are there is tons of Penicillium flying all over the place.

Adults can also be affected if they are exposed to large quantities of mold. When mold is left to grow it can produce harmful mycotoxins. Reports suggest that prolonged exposure to certain kinds of toxic mold can even cause brain damage or death.

Some people are more likely to experience mold-induced ailments than others. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security just because you are not being affected - your family might still be at risk. Family members with existing lung problems will experience the most problems and discomfort from molds.

You can do simple mold testing on your home without professional assistance. Simply check for damp and steamy areas, fix any leaks, and do a thorough house cleaning if you must. Finding mold is not the end of the world - get yourself a mold testing kit and hire house cleaners.


Get to know the reasons why mold testing in your home is very essential. Hit this link and you'll be enlightened.