Mould grows outside in the environment everywhere, as a species of fungi that thrives in darker areas that are exposed to ongoing moisture. While it may be relatively harmless in the outdoors, it’s another thing completely when it begins to grow inside your home or business. The problem with mould inside your home, is that it can be quite harmful to your health, and very destructive to almost every surface it encounters. Be it timber, lino, furniture, plaster, fabric, plastic, all can be overtaken and start to deteriorate, by the rapid growth of mould.
During the colder months of the year, you might find mould growth on your windows from excess condensation, but the real trouble usually starts from a water leak somewhere on your property. As pipes run inside your walls, up through the ceilings and underneath your flooring structures, even a small water leak can begin to cause insurmountable damage. Materials affected by mould most often have to be thrown out and replaced, and sometimes in the worst-case scenario, that includes the foundations of your home.
The combined elements of a hidden water leak (dark and consistently damp with little ventilation) make the ideal environment for mould to grow, and the only way to fix it, is to find the leak and stop it. But how? The best way to track down a hidden water leak is to enlist the help of an Austest Pipeline Solutions leak detection plumber Melbourne who will send out an experienced leak detector to expertly locate the source of your water leak, using non-invasive techniques and equipment. If you’ve noticed any signs of mould growth in your home that isn’t from condensation, chances are you have a water leak that should be dealt with immediately.
Signs Of Mould Growth
Some of the signs of mould growth are obvious, but not all. The existence of mould (especially if it has started in the internal structures of your home) may not be visible until it has completely taken over.
- The smell of mildew in the air
- Different coloured spots/stains appearing on plaster walls and ceilings
- Damp patches on carpets/warped lino
- Indoor plants dying or growing mould on leaves and dirt
- Growth of mushrooms along the skirting boards, in cupboards or drawers
- Damp wood/plaster in areas
If you notice any of the above signs, contact your local leak detection services to identify the location of the leak immediately.
Harmful Effects Of Mould
Unfortunately, mould grows fast and can do a lot of damage along the way. Not only does it rot the building materials that keep your home together, but it can also cause detrimental health problems.
The inhalation and exposure of mould spore particles can worsen pre-disposed health conditions such as asthma and respiratory illnesses, and can cause eye infections, skin irritation, throat infections, headaches and more. Some species of mould pose serious medical threats to even the healthiest people, so the sooner it is stopped, the better everyone’s health will be.
What Can You Do?
Because of the harmful nature of mould, the first thing to do is to attempt to clean off as much as you possibly can and hire someone to find the cause. A leak detection plumber should be contacted quickly, one who has the experience and the relevant equipment to locate the source of the water leak that is feeding the mould. In the meantime, most mould can be easily cleaned up with warm soapy water or mould remover, that can be purchased from your local supermarket.
For materials such as carpet and other fabrics, it is best to throw them out and replace them, as mould destroys their fibres. In extreme case where the wooden structure of your home has been affected, replacement of timber, plaster and other building materials may be necessary.
Conclusion
There are small things you can do to hinder the growth of mould in your home, such as keeping it well ventilated during the day with plenty of natural sunlight. Wiping your windows dry of morning condensation will also stop additional mould growth, keeping you and your family healthier in the long run.
Unfortunately finding mould anywhere in your home is usually a sign of a bigger problem, most likely a hidden water leak. Even if you clean away the mould from the area, it will continue to grow and re-appear until the leak has been stopped and repaired. If you’ve spotted any signs of mould growth in your home (or simply want to be on the safe side), contact a leak detection company in your area. The longer mould is left to its own devices, the more destruction it can cause to you, your family and your home.
Media Details:
Company Name: AUSEST PIPELINE SOLUTIONS
Phone: 1800 532 533
Address: Austest Pipeline Solutions – Leak Detection Specialist
Factory 13/2 Thomsons Rd, Keilor Park VIC 3042
Email: info@aus-test.com.au
Press Release Distributed by The Express Wire
To view the original version on The Express Wire visit HOW TO SPOT MOULD AND MOISTURE IN WALLS AND CEILINGS
