Quick Statistics about Mold Growth

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

For more information, contact our team of SERVPRO mold remediation technicians today!

Water damage in a residential or commercial property can often lead to a mold infestation. If left untreated, this mold growth can escalate and make its way throughout the property within 2-3 days. Unfortunately, mold is not only an issue that annoys homeowners and business owners alike, it can actually be incredibly dangerous for a person’s health. Decades and decades of research all point to the same issue regarding mold’s relation to serious health problems. Worldwide, millions of children and adults are living in regions where indoor and outdoor air pollution is threatening their well-being.

Mold is unavoidable, as it exists both in the air and on a variety of surfaces. Since it is attracted to moisture, mold grows in all kinds of places and is nearly unescapable. Health concerns like allergies and infections are related to mold presence. As such, it is important to be educated about mold in order to avoid it where possible. The following are some of the most notable statistics about mold growth:

• About 4.6 million cases of asthma in the United States are attributed to mold exposure and dampness within the home
• People are exposed to mold 24 hours a day, as it is virtually everywhere
• Elderly individuals, babies, children, and people with chronic respiratory conditions are often more severely affected by mold
• Recommendations state that humidity levels should be kept below 50% to prevent or limit mold growth
• Professional help should be sought if a mold problem exists in an area that covers 10 square feet or more
• Mold thrives on paper products, cardboard, and wood products
• Ventilation is critical in curbing the level of mold growth in a home

Organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Florida Department of Health work to provide statistics and information to limit the amount of mold exposure for the general population. Most notably, these organizations encourage homeowners and business owners to reach out for professional help if and when mold presence is identified. For more information, contact our team of SERVPRO mold remediation technicians today!