Mold in Your Home Can be a Serious Problem

Posted by James Lee on August 1st, 2018

South Florida has a tropical climate that provides high risk for mold, which is fungus that thrives on moisture and humidity. We've learned that mold can be devastating to your home and to your health. 

A leaky roof or window, broken or leaking pipes, or water damage that wasn’t dealt with properly, can all cause mold.  

Effects on Health

Mold spores in a home can contribute to a range of health issues: asthma and other respiratory distress, skin rashes, congestion, and eye irritation. Immune-compromised people and those who have chronic lung illnesses are susceptible to serious infections. If you're sensitive to mold, you may experience serious health problems.  

If you've been exposed to dangerous mold, you may want to consider talking to a Florida mold lawyer. 

Preventing Mold

The only way to eliminate mold is to thoroughly dry out the damp area. Sometimes that's harder than it sounds. In severe cases, such as after flooding, a mold remediation company may be required. 

Benjamin Franklin is famously quoted as saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." That's certainly true for mold. The best thing you can do is prevent it before it becomes a problem and you find yourself in need of a Florida mold attorney. 

The key to mold prevention is simple: moisture control. There are steps you can take to minimize the risk that you'll have to deal with problematic mold. Here are a few things you can do: 

• Identify potential problem areas. Is there a water stain on the ceiling? Do you see frequent condensation on a window? Check washer and dryer connections, as well as connections to your dishwasher, ice-maker, and other appliances that use water. Check pipes under sinks.
• Dry wet areas immediately. Mold can't grow without moisture, so immediately dry wet areas thoroughly. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine. Don't leave wet towels and other items lying around after a day at the beach. Dry the floor and walls after a shower. 
• Clean gutters regularly. Full or damaged gutters can cause problems. Regularly clean and inspect gutters and repair them as needed. 
• Improve air flow. Assure good ventilation and improve air circulation in your home. Open doors between rooms and vent appliances that produce moisture to the outside. 

It isn't always possible to prevent mold. If you or your loved ones have suffered because of mold problems, you'll want to consult with a Florida mold lawyer.