When you have a water leak in your home, there is a good chance that you might not be aware of it immediately. Many of these hidden leaks occur inside the walls and floors of your home, or even under the slab foundation. It can be days, weeks, or even months before you begin to see the physical signs of water damage in your home. And while that damage is very serious and costly, it might not be the most severe concern you will have to deal with. You and your loved ones could be suffering from various health issues due to the mold and mildew created by the water leak.
Mold And Mildew Basics
Mold and mildew are both forms of fungi. But they have slightly different appearances and characteristics. In addition to the moisture created by a water leak in your home, they require food and temperature ranging from 41 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit to thrive.
Most homes offer the ideal temperature for mold and mildew growth. And they also provide multiple food sources, including wood, fabric, wallpaper, and even paint. But under normal conditions, your home is too dry for mold and mildew to thrive. However, a water leak provides the moisture that mold and mildew need to thrive.
Mildew Specifics
Mildew is considered to be the least hazardous of the two fungi. It is greyish white or brown and has a powdery texture. It is typically found on the surface of a material like bathroom tile or a damp corner of the basement. The spores of mildew can occasionally cause an allergic reaction, but mildew is easily killed with bleach or vinegar.
Mold Specifics
Mold is the more serious fungi and is also the most difficult to eliminate. In only 24 hours, mold can produce spores that become airborne and begin to create issues. The spores contain allergens and irritants that cause health issues when they enter the human respiratory system. Mold usually is darker in color than mildew. The colors can range from dark green or black to a deep red. And it often creates a foul odor.Left untreated, mold can consume wood and drywall to create significant structural damage to your home.
Symptoms Of Mold And Mildew Related Health Issues
Respiratory issues are very common after mold and mildew exposure. The severity of the problems depends on each person’s level of susceptibility to the allergens. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Itchy eyes or redness
- Skin, nose, and throat irritation
- Coughing and sneezing similar to severe allergies
- Sinus congestion
- Both upper and lower respiratory infection
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
Many of these reactions are caused simply by breathing air contaminated with mold spores. But issues can arise after coming into physical contact with mold on surfaces when cleaning or removing the mold. People with other respiratory complications such as asthma can experience a much more severe reaction to exposure to mold and mildew.
Taking Action When Mold And Mildew Are Discovered
The best way to eliminate mold and mildew growth is to remove its access to water. Locating and repairing water leaks is your first priority. If you cannot find the leak, it is best to call in the leak detection specialists from Metroplex Leak & Line. Our team uses the latest leak detection technology, including moisture sensors and sound amplification equipment to quickly locate the source of the water.
Once we find the leak, we can provide you with your options for repairing it. Our goal is always to offer multiple repair options so that you can select the one that best fits your household’s budget. Once our repair is competed and pressure tested, you can rest assured that you will have no more issues in that area.
Your final step in this critical process is water damage repair and mold abatement. Many professionals will work with you to remove all of the water damaged and mold-infested materials from your home to ensure that it is mold-free. Once that process is completed, and the area is thoroughly cleaned and dry, you can begin replacing what was damaged.
Hidden water leaks in your home are very serious for several reasons. Not only is it damaging your home, but it is also placing your health and the health of your loved ones in jeopardy. You might not even know the leak is there. But if you are suffering unexplained respiratory issues, you should call (214) 388-4525 for a leak inspection.
