Monday, January 2, 2012

Mold Testing - The Healthy Choice

Mold is everywhere, believe it or not. You may clean your home as impeccably as you can but there’s no getting rid of these unwanted microscopic house guests. In many instances the only way to overcome the scourge of mold is to have your home tested for these microscopic spores.

Mold might seem tiny and inconsequential but it can cause severe illness or allergies without you even realizing that this is happening. Mold becomes harmful when all of the separate microscopic fungi team up and work as a colony. Food spoils as a result of the presence of mold.

Mold is crucial in the process of biodegradation. In fact, some mold is used in producing food, drinks, and some medicines. People can therefore make an argument that some molds are helpful microorganisms, but generally they are still harmful since they can make you sick.

Mold survives best on the dead organic matter that we come across in nature. You have probably seen some kind of mold growing on your food at home, particularly decaying fruits and vegetables. Your bathroom, kitchen, storage areas, plumbing spaces, basement, and poorly ventilated, humid areas are also at risk because they are dark and damp.

The most common household molds are black molds, bathroom molds, ceiling molds, wall molds, HVAC vent molds and molds in dust. Just remember that not all molds are toxic. Mold growth can be halted in its track by removing any possible sources of moisture, like leaky vents or faucets.

Dust is molds transportation of choice within your home. Mold is present when someone sneezes uncontrollably, and their eyes itch and water. If you suffer from chronic coughing, headaches, rashes, difficulty in breathing, sinus problems, and nasal blockage, you are probably in the presence of mold.

In general, mold affects children more severely than adults, and Penicillium is particularly dangerous. Prolonged exposure to this particular spore can lead to the development of asthma and other breathing issues. If you notice your child sneezing too often without apparent cause, chances are there is tons of Penicillium flying all over the place.

Mold affects adults too - you can experience allergic reactions and breathing problems regardless of how healthy you are. The reason why mold is dangerous is that it can produce 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.

If you have reasons to suspect mold growing all over your house, you can do simple mold testing yourself. Start by fixing leaks, then check for damp, steamy areas, and finally clean your house thoroughly. 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.