And why it's affecting your health.
6 invisible signs your home has a mould problem. Image: iStockSource:BodyAndSoul
Mould illness and allergy has become more and more prevalent in Australia, particularly since the extreme weather events of La Niña over the past 12 months. Mould testing technician Amy Stitt offers her tips to reducing mould in the home.
The havoc mould has caused on many homes through flooding and storm damage has been heartbreaking. Many families have been left living in homes that are now structurally compromised, others left with contamination caused by mould, and some families left homeless.
24% of the population cannot detox from mould contamination, meaning that if you are exposed to microbial growth you may start to feel the effects on your health. Some common symptoms that present as a result of mould exposure include headaches, itchy/watery eyes, fatigue, reoccurring colds, skin disturbances, and brain fog.
However, the effects of mould are not felt by all, meaning that other occupants from the same household may not experience these symptoms, even if one person does.
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Slowly, more and more doctors are realising the severity of mould on human health, with microbial growth exposure now a prominent trigger for those who suffer asthma and environmental allergies.
Judith Stern famously said, “Genetics load the gun, and the environment pulls the trigger” when it comes to our everyday health. And even without the onset of extreme weather, some of our basic lifestyle habits can promote the risk of mould within our homes and inflict these common health side effects.
Mould spores can hide in porous materials such as carpets and rugs, sofas, cushions, clothing, soft toys and linen.
Microbial growth, on the other hand, is commonly found hiding in wall cavities, in the roof space and subfloor, as these growths tend to latch onto building materials such as chip board and plasterboard that make up the walls, ceiling and floors of most homes.
Yes! Mould spores can easily move through air pathways within your home; through doorways, staircases, air vents and air conditioners. Really, wherever there is air flow mould spores can travel and contaminate those areas too.
Mould spores move through air pathways within your home. Image: iStockSource:BodyAndSoul
The best way to check for mould in your home is by using the following checklist to look (and smell) for signs of water damage and mould in your built environment.
If you answered YES to any of the above, it is suggested you book a moisture and mould assessment with a certified mould testing technician or building biologist as soon as possible. You can find your closest technician on the Australasian Society of Building Biologists (ASBB) website here.
If you notice an obvious damp or musty odour, this will signify the presence of active fungal growth somewhere in your home. The smell comes from the microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) which are linked to headaches, allergy symptoms, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, etc.
Thus, it is important to avoid the use of fragrant products within the home as they can mask the smell emitted from mould.
A damp/musty odour signifies the presence of active fungal growth in the home. Image: iStockSource:BodyAndSoul
With old fashioned warm, soapy water, use a microfibre cloth to wipe and remove the mould. The most crucial part of this is in the drying process. Once the mould has been removed with a damp cloth, use a clean and dry towel to dry the area. Discard both clothes in plastic bags as not to contaminate other areas of your home.
The use of a vacuum fitted with a high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter is beneficial as they can pick up mould particles as small as 0.3 microns (µm).
Avoid the use of bleaches, essential oils and vinegar as these add liquid to a moisture issue and if used incorrectly can be aggravate the situation. Basic detergent is a good substance to use as it can break down some mould effectively.
If the mould has infiltrated building materials such as walls or ceilings it is recommended you have your home assessed by a certified mould testing technician who can inspect the home and direct you to the appropriate help to carry out repairs, removal and remediation to the affected area and offer ways to prevent mould from coming back.
Effectively remove mould with old fashioned warm, soapy water, use a microfibre cloth. Image: iStockSource:BodyAndSoul
Amy Stitt is a mould testing technician, having started her business; Beaches Building Biology after a 3-year battle with mould illness and allergy. Understanding the seriousness of indoor mould on human health, Amy endeavours to assist others with their own mould battles. You can follow her Instagram here.
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