The public’s concern over possible health dangers of mold has grown dramatically in the last decade, spawning (pun intended) a booming industry. Insurance companies have paid millions of dollars to home-owners who made claims that mold in their homes was not dealt with properly. For this reason many insurance policies no longer cover mold.
The safest and most effective way to deal with mold is to be sure everything is clean and dry!
But even mold that has been “killed” can still trigger allergic reactions and perhaps other health issues.
How mold works:
Mildew grows most actively in the dark moist areas, between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, if it has a food source. The food source can be organic matter such as jute backing, hair pad and soil from sewage. Even synthetic carpets contain a variety of organic soils, so mold may appear even after a clear water flood.
As mold digests it’s food, it will release a gas. This is the source of the odor. Conditions that are favorable for mold growth are also favorable for bacteria. A sour odor from bacteria may be present long before mold has had the necessary time to grow and multiply and produce odor.
How to remove it:
As with any odor, you must treat and remove the source, to eliminate the odor. Because carpet is an absorbent material, in most cases the infected areas must be removed and disposed of. The sub-flooring must also be treated with an anti-microbial to kill mold. Most chemicals used to treat mold are considered safe, but be aware different people may react to different triggers. Do not use disenfectants without consulting a professional.
Applying a carpet fragrance such as febreeze will not eliminate the odor, it will only cover it up for a short period. The problem must be treated at the source!
Studies and statistics provided by the IICRC
