If you’ve been noticing mold growth in your home, call Preferred Plumbing and Rooter Service. Mold growth can be a sign of a hidden water leak. We specialize in locating and repairing home water leaks in Pomona and surrounding communities.
WHAT IS MOLD?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. It thrives in warm, damp, and humid conditions and can appear in a variety of colors, including black, green, white, or orange. Mold plays a vital role in breaking down organic matter in nature. However, when it grows indoors, it can cause significant problems for both your health and property.
HOW DOES MOLD ENTER A HOME OR BUILDING?
Mold reproduces by releasing microscopic spores that float in the air. They enter homes or buildings through open windows and doors, ventilation systems, and even on our clothes and pets. All the spores need is a little moisture to get going. A leaking water pipe provides an excellent source of moisture for mold to grow.
PROPERTY DAMAGE CAUSED BY MOLD GROWTH
Mold can grow on just about any surface. It feeds on organic materials like wood, drywall, and fabric. Over time, mold can break down these materials, leading to structural weakening and damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. Prolonged exposure can result in rotting wood, crumbling plaster, or peeling paint, compromising the integrity of the building.
Mold can also ruin personal belongings like furniture, carpets, books, and clothing. Items made from organic materials are particularly susceptible, and once mold penetrates fabrics or upholstery, it can be difficult to remove. It produces a musty odor that can permeate a home or business, making the space unpleasant and reducing the value of the property.
Visible mold or the need for extensive mold remediation can significantly lower a property’s resale value. Mold infestations are considered a red flag in real estate transactions.
HEALTH ISSUES CAUSED BY MOLD GROWTH
Mold can do more than just physical damage to a home or business. It can also create a host of health issues. Mold exposure affects people differently depending on the individual’s sensitivity, the type of mold, and the level of exposure. Infants, young children, elderly adults, and those with respiratory disorders are most vulnerable to mold exposure.
Mold spores can trigger allergic responses causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, runny nose, red or itchy eyes, and skin rashes. It can also lead to respiratory issues, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and worsening asthma symptoms. Prolonged exposure to high mold levels may even result in chronic respiratory conditions.
Direct contact with mold spores can cause skin irritation or rashes. People who are highly sensitive may experience eye irritation, including redness, itching, and watery eyes. Mold can weaken the immune system, leading to an increased susceptibility to infections and illnesses.
Certain types of mold, such as *Stachybotrys* (commonly known as black mold), can produce mycotoxins that may lead to more severe health problems. In rare cases, exposure to toxic mold can cause neurological symptoms like headaches, memory loss, and confusion. Infants are especially vulnerable to black mold.
PREVENTING MOLD GROWTH
While it’s almost impossible to keep mold spores out of a home or business, there are many steps you can take to prevent its growth. The key to preventing indoor mold growth is to control indoor moisture levels by:
- Have any water leaks fixed promptly. Contact Preferred Plumbing and Rooter Service for water leak repairs in Pomona.
- Properly ventilate areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Use dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity. Running the air conditioner can also help lower indoor humidity levels.
- Regularly inspect for signs of water damage or mold.
WATER LEAK REPAIRS IN POMONA CAN PREVENT MOLD GROWTH AND OTHER PROBLEMS
In addition to mold growth, some of the signs of a hidden water leak include higher than normal water bills, water stains and discoloration on ceilings, and walls, and wet floors, carpets, and rugs. If you’ve been noticing any of these red flags, get in touch with Preferred Plumbing and Rooter Service. We’ve been providing water leak repairs in Pomona since 2016; our plumbers have the tools and technology to pinpoint the source of your leak and make any necessary repairs.
Our team of Pomona plumbing contractors are available 24/7 to address any plumbing emergency you may experience. Call us at (877) 298-8105 or contact us through our website to schedule a call from a Pomona water leak repair professional.