MOULD REMEDIATION

Mould has had its 15 minutes of fame over the last few years. Though the hype has died down, mould is still an important issue. Customer complaints require home builders to have a fast action plan; both to clean up the mould problem and to show customers a quality home builder is looking out for their health and safety and the durability of their home.
There are two important things to remember about mould: prevent it by doing things right the first time and when you do face mould, take care of it immediately. Ensuring that your warranty team follows a process for mould remediation will take care of the latter.

Introduction to Moulds
Moulds produce tiny spores to reproduce. Mould spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mould spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are moulds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mould growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or un-addressed. There is no practical way to eliminate all mould and mould spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mould growth is to control moisture.

Basic Mould Cleanup
The key to mould control is moisture control. It is important to dry water damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mould growth. If mould is a problem in your home, clean up the mould and get rid of the excess water or moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Wash mould off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles & carpet) that become mouldy may have to be replaced.

Things You Should Know About Mould

Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mould exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.

There is no practical way to eliminate all mould and mould spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mould growth is to control moisture.

If mould is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mould and eliminate sources of moisture.

Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mould growth.

Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60% ) to decrease mould growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.

Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mould growth.

Clean mould off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are mouldy, may need to be replaced.

Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.

In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).

Moulds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are moulds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.