Have you ever noticed a musty smell in your home? Maybe it is particularly strong in your basement? This stench is unpleasant enough as it is, but it is often a sign that something much worse is lurking in your home. Mold can wreak havoc on your house and can create a dangerous health hazard for the people living in it. From big house foundation repair costs to coughing and sneezing, mold can cause all sorts of trouble.
What’s So Bad About Mold, Anyway?
Mold can cause health problems for otherwise healthy people, but is particularly bad for people with allergies or respiratory problems. Symptoms of mold exposure are similar to those that are experienced by people with allergies, including sneezing, wheezing and irritation of the eyes. A more serious reaction to mold can cause fever and respiratory infections. Some molds also produce mycotoxin, which can lead to neurological problems, and even death.
Aside from harming your lungs, mold can also really hurt your wallet. Extensive mold problems can call for expensive home repairs, including large house foundation repair costs.
Why is There Mold in My House?!
Mold requires moisture to grow, so if you have a mold problem in your home, it likely stems from a water leakage problem. Water can leak into your home for a number of reasons, including poor yard drainage, cracks in windows and walls and faulty gutters. If your home smells musty, it is a good idea to check for damp areas around the house. Likely culprits are the bathroom, basement and laundry room.
I Know It’s Bad, so How Do I Stop It?
As was said above, mold is usually the result of water damage in your home. Waterproofing your home is the best way to prevent the growth of mold in your house. It is important to fix basement leaks, but preventing water from getting in in the first place is essential. Some options include installing a basement sump pump, basement window well covers or even a French drain system. The key is taking preventive measures.
From expensive repairs to health issues, mold can be the root of a lot of problems. Knowing how it grows, however, can help you prevent it from causing big trouble for your home and your family.
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