Although not technically a pest, mold fungus and rot
problems can be annoying.
Given the proper conditions, mold will start to germinate and grow as early as 24 hours after encountering the moisture source. In 3 to 12 days, the mold spores will colonize, and in 18-21 days, the mold can become visible.
Mold will start to grow in any places inside the house where air movement is restricted or ventilation is poor. Often seen as grey or black mold in corners of walls spreading outwards and eventually covering the entire wall. Mainly caused by condensation, poor ventilation or damp, water ingress, and is almost invariably the result of the lifestyle of the occupant.
Once
it gets a hold it becomes a very unpleasant sight accompanied by a musty
smell.
Fungus may also attack and live on any decaying matter,
such as tree bark, dead wood in the garden and any wooden structures
that have started to rot.
To remove the fungus on rotten wood, you have to remove the rot and then eliminate the
cause of the dampness which causes the rot. In many instances the rotten
wood needs to be cut out and replaced. But in any event the cause of the
dampness will need to be remedied by a damp specialist.
We deal with mold, not damp problems, but we can advise.
Signs of Mold on Walls
Cracked or peeling paint, discoloration and bulging are all tell-tale signs that there could be moisture in a wall. If you notice any of these things in a wall in your home, take a closer look and you might see the beginnings of small amounts of mold growth.
These signs could also indicate that the mold is not just surface mould, but maybe is actually growing hidden behind the wall, in the wall cavity. Seeing small spots of mold on a wall can sometimes be a sign that there is
a larger mold colony on the other side which is slowly growing through.
Smelling a moldy odor or suffering allergic reactions are also good indications there could be mold growing hidden behind a wall in your home.
So
to identify the problem and possible causes, call our fast response unit.
Mold and Double Glazing
Double glazing is great but it does remove the ventillation provided from badly fitting doors and windows. This source of ventillation needs to be replaced e.g. by vents or opening windows. If not addressed, the humidity levels inside the house build up and mold is inevitably the result.