Texans love good rainstorms. Afternoon storms or gentle rains cool down the humid air while bringing much needed water to parched lawns. But the rainy season in Texas also creates the perfect storm for mold growth – especially in homes and buildings that aren’t well-ventilated.
For people with mold allergies, the rainy season in Texas can wreak havoc on their immune system and can cause their mold allergy symptoms to multiply. Whether you or a loved one struggles with mold allergies, there are simple steps that you can take to reduce mold exposure during the damp months and keep allergy symptoms in check.
Why Rain Causes Mold
Rain doesn’t cause mold to grow. However, it does create the perfect environment for mold to reproduce and grow. For mold to grow, it releases spores into the air, which then attach to damp areas and begin to develop new mold.
If mold releases spores in dry areas, the spores die without being able to attach to a surface, preventing mold growth. However, if mold encounters moisture left behind by rain or even humid conditions, its mold spores attach to the surface and grow rapidly. Mold growth can start within 24 or 48 hours of spores attaching to damp surfaces.
Rainy weather can lead to the build-up of damp areas outside your home and possible hidden leaks or worn weather stripping and seals inside your home.
If you suffer from a mold allergy, mold spores can trigger your immune system, causing uncomfortable and persistent allergy symptoms.
Signs You Might Be Having An Allergic Reaction to Mold
Mold allergies can cause symptoms similar to seasonal allergies or even common colds. Signs and symptoms of a mold allergy may include:
· Runny nose or nasal congestion
· Sneezing
· Coughing
· Watery or itchy eyes
· Skin irritation or rashes
· Wheezing
· Asthma, including new on-set asthma
Tips to Reduce Mold Exposure Inside Your Home
While keeping leaf piles and yard debris cleaned up and wearing protective gear while gardening or working in the yard can help you keep from feeling ill while working outside your home, it’s vital to eliminate opportunities for mold growth inside your home.
Use these simple tips to help prevent mold exposure indoors:
Control humidity levels
Humidity creates the perfect environment for mold. Using a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels between 30-50% reduces the moisture in the air and makes it less hospitable to mold. Pay close attention to areas in your home where moisture tends to build up, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Don’t forget: Dehumidifiers can grow mold if they are not maintained. Occasionally empty and clean the dehumidifier well to prevent mold from growing inside it.
Clean and Dry Wet Areas
Rain water leaks through a small crack, the soaking wet dog runs in and dries himself on the couch, or kids throw wet towels into a corner and forget about them. Living life means that sometimes our home will have wet areas. But it’s important to immediately clean and dry any damp areas to prevent mold from growing and protect our family and kids from mold allergies.
Fans and wet vacs can help to quickly dry anything too large to put in the dryer or too difficult to blot dry.
Fix Leaks Immediately
Even small leaks can create ideal conditions for mold to grow. Check under sinks, around windows, and near the roof for signs of water damage or leaks. Repairing
plumbing or sealing windows as soon as possible can save you from major mold problems later.
Keeping a close eye on your water bill can help alert you to possible hidden leaks from water pipes.
Use Fans and Air Filters
Texans love their fans. But did you know that the wise use of a fan involves more than just using it to cool a room? Using fans to maintain proper ventilation helps dry out damp areas and prevent condensation. Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen, and consider cracking open a window when weather permits. If you have an HVAC system, ensure it’s clean and functioning well, with high-quality air filters that are regularly replaced.
Choose Mold-Resistant Products
Modern advances have made mold-resistant products readily available. opt for mold-resistant drywall, paint, and insulation, especially in moisture-prone areas.
Call Professional Mold Remediation Specialists
If you suspect a severe mold infestation, hiring a certified mold remediation specialist may be best. Hiring a certified mold specialist is especially important if you or your family members have a severe mold allergy or respiratory issues like asthma.
Life in Texas means heavy thunderstorms. It’s part of our daily lives, but unfortunately for those who suffer from mold allergies, it can be harmful if the potential for mold exposure isn’t taken seriously. By keeping your home clean, dry, and well-ventilated, you can significantly reduce mold exposure and control mold allergy symptoms.
If you or a loved one is dealing with a harsh mold allergy, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today to talk through mold allergies and seek further treatment.
