In an ongoing battle against mold and mildew, residents can take certain precautions to better protect their homes and well-being. Mold — which attacks organic materials such as paper, cloth and leather — grows from spores found virtually everywhere, according
In an ongoing battle against mold and mildew, residents can take certain precautions to better protect their homes and well-being.
Mold — which attacks organic materials such as paper, cloth and leather — grows from spores found virtually everywhere, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Since science has determined spores grow best at temperatures above 65 degrees and humidity levels of more than 75 percent, the Garden Island is prime breeding ground.
Outdoors, mold helps break down dead matter such as leaves and trees. But indoors, it can wreak havoc.
“It is impossible to get rid of all mold and mold spores indoors; some mold spores will be floating through the air and in house dust,” a Environmental Protection Agency guide states. “If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem.”
Stopping water leakage is crucial, said Steven Quan, who owns and operates Moldbusters Hawai‘i.
Quan said he recommends a dehumidifier and good air flow in the home, as controlling moisture is key.
In Waimea, for example, Quan said the roofs on houses at night become cooler than the indoor air temperature.
This causes condensation on the ceiling, allowing mold to grow, he added.
Exposure to mold can cause asthma attacks and sinus infections, according to the EPA, so fighting the fungus is more than avoiding tough stains.
Molds produce allergens, irritants and in some cases mycotoxins, which can be a serious health threat, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
But sometimes, controlling humidity and temperature are not enough.
Professional companies, such as Moldbusters Hawaii, can treat an entire house with a non-toxic chemical that kills mold and the spores that produce it.
Remediation is also necessary if there is a serious enough water intrusion issue, Quan said. Moldy drywall, for instance, may have to be removed as well.
The bottom line — act quickly.
“Mold damages what it grows on. The longer it grows, the more damage it can cause,” the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guide states.
When cleaning mold, it is important to limit your exposure to the mold by wearing protective clothing and working in a well-ventillated area. The EPA recommends gloves and goggles.
Cleaning the area within 48 hours generally prevents mold growth, according to the EPA guide.
