Flooring Fear: Preventing Mold and Fungus in Your Home
With winter upon us and the weather turning damp, this is the time of year to start watching out for mold and fungus that may affect your flooring. Although we aren't mold or fungus experts, we know that it's not good for you. As the EPA explains, "Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints...severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. Some people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs."
Preventing Mold and Fungus in Your Flooring
The good news is it's possible to limit mold and fungus growth by controlling the moisture in your home. When it comes to flooring, the main thing to watch out for is discoloration. When heavy moisture is trapped, it causes mold and fungus; this usually affects resilient flooring, like linoleum, VCT tiles, etc., although mold can grow on practically any surface (including hardwood). If you notice mold or fungus on your floors, make sure you take care of it right away. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:- If you try to kill the fungus yourself, make sure the windows are open and you're wearing a dust mask. Inhaling mold spores can cause a lot of health problems.
- Keep your home dry to prevent fungus from growing in the future. A dehumidifier can help with this, as can venting your bathrooms, dryers and exhaust fans in the kitchen.
- The sun is another way to kill mold, so keep the window shades pulled open.
- Make sure your dryer vents outside; those that don't often contribute to humidity within the home.
- Add insulation to reduce the condensation on cold surfaces.
