Springtime Weather and Mold

With warmer weather and more rain during the spring season, damp conditions lead to more moisture existing within buildings. As many are prone to allergies during spring, it is exasperated by mold growth. Keep in mind that more people have outdoor mold allergies than indoor mold allergies, however during springtime, it’s important to be especially aware of any potential mold growth in living and working spaces.

Mold can deteriorate building materials, cause discoloration and odor problems, and lead to allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, as well as other health problems. It is always best to take proactive measures. These are basic steps to control moisture and limit the instance of mold or mildew in your building:

• Keep Air Cool – by using an HVAC system or an air conditioning unit.
• Increase Airflow – along with HVAC system or air conditioner, use fans and keep internal doors open
• Use a Dehumidifier – if still experiencing a humidity problem
• Heat the Floor – an effective way to prevent condensation from forming on the floors or walls in below-ground areas or close to the foundation where temperatures are usually much cooler than the outside air.
• Clean and Disinfect– with non-polluting cleaners and antimicrobial agents provide protection against mold growth.
• Remove Porous Materials – especially those likely exposed to water vapor, near exterior doorways, bathrooms or locker rooms.

For more information visit https://www.epa.gov/mold

Either surface temperature or vapor pressure can be the dominant factor in causing a mold problem. A surface temperature-related mold problem may not respond very well to increasing ventilation, whereas a vapor pressure-related mold problem may not respond well to increasing temperatures. Understanding which factor dominates will help in selecting an effective control strategy.

For more information about Industrial Hygiene services or to inquire about testing, contact Tim Popp, VP of Environmental Consulting, at timp@ttienv.com