Mould Problems
Mould spores make up a significant portion of household dust and are known allergens. Their microscopic spores are often powdery and become airborne at the slightest disturbance.
These microscopic spores are then inhaled by humans and have been attributed (along with the dust mite) to being a trigger for asthma, dust allergy and hay fever.
During growth, fungal colonies can produce gases known as 'volites', which are musty mildew-like odours, which you may associate with damp basements. Exposure to these gases have been associated with a number of symptoms from headaches to nausea and fatigue o nausea and fatigue.
The three basic ingredients to start a colony of mould comprise of the following:
- Organic material (wood, wallpaper, carpet etc)
- A fungal spore
- Water
The vast majority of products used to build and furnish homes are made from organic materials. Fungal spores are microscopic and are present in any indoor or outdoor environment; they can easily enter any dwelling undetected. The main source of water for mould is from the air around it, so if relative humidity is high the mould will thrive. Therefore, to reduce the risk of mould growth in a property you must reduce the relative humidity.
