Strategies to Prevent Mold Growth
When mold infests a commercial building, poor indoor air quality (IAQ) is a common secondary issue. Compromised IAQ can have adverse effects on the health of occupants, including those who live or work in the building, as well as customers, vendors, and members of the general public who may be exposed during visits to the facility.
How Mold Growth Diminishes Indoor Air Quality
Mold growth occurs when spores, the "seeds" of fungal organisms, come into contact with moisture. In a commercial building, these spores absorb water and germinate, leading to the rapid formation of fungal colonies. These colonies then produce additional spores, which are forcefully dispersed into the air as irritating contaminants. Inhalation of these spores can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), maturing fungi also emit microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that carry the unpleasantly musty odors that signal a mold outbreak. The EPA notes links between mVOCs and some or all of the following troublesome symptoms connected to diminished IAQ:
- Nasal irritation
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Commercial Interior Air Quality Challenges
Most commercial buildings use heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to move heated and cooled air among all interior spaces. Over the last few decades, building practices have emphasized air-tight construction, promoting the recirculation of a potentially contaminated interior atmosphere. The ductwork and fans of the HVAC can spread spores, moldy debris, and mVOCs that irritate and possibly compromise the well-being of those who breathe in the contaminants and odors. At Lightspeed Restoration, our IICRC-certified and well-equipped crews can conduct thorough inspections and provide mold remediation and indoor air quality (IAQ) improvements through professional air duct cleaning.
Moisture Management Tips Prevent Mold Growth
Two of the three things mold needs to grow are impossible to eliminate; oxygen and organic nourishment sources, like most building materials, are in endless supply in any building. The third requirement for microbial growth is access to moisture. Swift and diligent moisture management is the “key to mold control” according to the EPA. We are experts in locating and resolving moisture issues that can increase the risk of mold growth in commercial spaces, including identifying spaces exhibiting excessive humidity as well as unaddressed water damage. Hints to find and fix moisture problems include:
- Prompt detection and repairs of plumbing and roof or exterior leaks, including checking gutter and downspout condition and operation to keep foundations free from seepage or flooding
- Diligent cleanup and complete drying of overflows and spills
- Regular HVAC inspections and professional maintenance to prevent pooling of moisture due to overflows or clogs of AC or heating system condensate
- Continuous monitoring of various spaces to keep relative humidity below 50 percent, including adjusting temperature and ventilation as needed
- Installing and consistently using exhaust fans and systems to vent moisture from appliances and high-humidity rooms to the outside
Contact Lightspeed Restoration at (800) 620-4009 for reliable resources to remediate commercial mold damage and provide solutions for indoor air quality worries. Our highly qualified technicians also offer water damage restoration and practical tips to prevent future mold growth.