Why Indoor Water Damage Demands Immediate Attention

Posted by DrDHooper on August 2nd, 2017

Most people are reasonably familiar with the term “sick building syndrome.” They know that such an indoor environment can sicken people who frequent and may even cause life-threatening conditions. What they may not know, however, is how an ordinary building becomes a sick one and the steps that can be taken to prevent this from happening in the first place.

Sick buildings are indoor environments that have been contaminated by toxic mold. Of the estimated 50,000 different types of mold known to man, about 200 species fall into this category. These molds can release mycotoxins, or mold poisons, into the environment that sicken people and animals. Associated with a variety of different health complaints, from asthma and some forms of cancer to neurotoxicity, mycotoxins can pose very real dangers to people who suffer long-term exposure.

The transformation of an ordinary building into a sick one can occur in several different ways. Fortunately, there are actions that can be taken to counter the effects and even prevent mold growth from occurring in the first place. Here are just a few of the things that promote toxic mold growth inside a building:

• Water damage from leaks or spills – When a pipe bursts, a roof leaks or a dishwasher overflows, water may seep into walls, ceiling tiles and other building materials. If the materials have organic compounds, such as drywall might, a perfect incubator for mold growth may be created. As mold begins to appear on such water-damaged surfaces, it may release mycotoxins into the building’s environment. People, in turn, may become exposed through ingestion, inhalation or absorption through the skin.
• Exposure to extreme humidity – If a building’s indoor environment isn’t humidity regulated, extreme levels can begin to promote the development of mold growth on organic surfaces. This type of concern can impact larger areas within an indoor environment that a simple leak might.

Preventing mold growth within a building is very feasible if certain actions are taken:

• Addressing water damage immediately – If a leak or spill occurs, fixing the source of the problem isn’t enough. Once that broken pipe is replaced, it’s important to all replace any organic materials that were damaged by the leak. Drywall, wood, ceiling tiles and so on should either be completely removed or dried and treated to stop mold from growing. If growth has already occurred, an environmental inspector should be called upon to make safe and appropriate mitigation recommendations.
• Tackling humidity problems – If indoor relative humidity levels run too high, air condition or dehumidifiers may serve to prevent mold growth.

Sick building syndrome is a serious concern that is traced to mold growth and water damage. Addressing such damage or preventing it in the first place can safeguard buildings and people alike.

About Author

Dr. Dennis G. Hooper is presently the Senior Member of RealTime Laboratories, (RTL) Inc. and Senior Medical Officer of Advatect Diagnostics, LLC, in Carrollton, Texas. The laboratory was established in 2004 and is devoted to the study and testing of mycotoxins.