Some of the most frequently asked questions we get have to do with mold growth and insulation. Our customers want to know whether or not their insulation in Sacramento, CA is at risk of getting moldy. Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about mold and your insulation.
What does mold need to grow?
Mold is a living organism, and just like every living thing, it needs food and water to survive. We typically see mold get its moisture from a leaky pipe or an unfixed hole in the roof. Mold also needs a source of nutrients, which it gets from cellulose. If your insulation is cellulose-based (which is the case in many homes), your insulation is at risk of getting moldy. The only folks who are safe from moldy insulation are those who chose to install spray foam insulation, as there is no organic material for the mold to feed upon.
What are the health effects of mold?
As you probably already know, having mold in your home is not good! Here are a few of the scary health effects of mold growth:
- Breathing issues: Coughing, wheezing and general breathing problems are all typically associated with the presence of mold spores. These issues are particularly bad for those who already have a history of asthma or other respiratory conditions.
- Watery eyes: Mold spores in the air also tend to affect our eyes. You may notice that your eyes feel watery or itchy while you’re in a home or building that has some mold growing inside it.
- Skin irritation: Rashes and red spots on exposed skin are also common. This side effect can range from mild irritation to a seriously bothersome and nasty-looking condition.
How can I prevent mold issues?
The good news is that fixing the problems above isn’t all that hard. Here’s what you need to do to prevent any mold problems:
- Call for an inspection: If you have a feeling that mold might be growing somewhere in your home, the first thing you should do is schedule an inspection. Mold remediation professionals can come to your home and confirm whether or not you have a mold issue. After the inspection, they’ll proceed with the best practices for removal.
- Fix leaks: As mentioned above, mold needs a source of moisture to grow. Any sort of leak—whether it’s from a hole in your roof or a dripping pipe—needs to be repaired as soon as possible. All it takes is a couple days of exposure to moisture for mold to start to grow.
- Replace insulation: Finally, it’s time to replace all of that old insulation with some that’s new and mold-free! You may want to consider installing spray foam insulation, which is impervious to mold growth.
If you suspect that your insulation could be moldy, now is the time to have it removed and replaced! In addition to making your home a safer place to be, new insulation in Sacramento, CA will help lower your energy bills and keep your house comfortable throughout the year. Reach out to 5 Star Performance Insulation, Inc. to learn more.