Mold isn't just a patch of blue to indicate your bread's gone bad. There are molds that grow on carpets, wood, and paper too. And they don't sit around innocently: Health problems and allergies can be exacerbated by the presence of mold. Here's how to address a mold problem in your home.

Molds can affect people already suffering from asthma or allergies, and it can produce symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and rashes.

If health issues haven't tipped you off to a mold problem, you might get a visual cue, such as a furry growth on the ceiling, or spots on the shower curtain. If you had a leaky roof, perhaps there is a brown or grey stain around the leak entry. The mold might emit a musty smell-another telltale sign. Visible mold should be dealt with immediately.

Mold spores travel through air waiting to land on a damp spot where they will feed and grow. Eliminating moisture in your home is the first step to ridding it of mold-wherever there is moisture build up, you can count on mold growth. It is essential that you dry water-damaged areas as soon as possible, and get rid of any existing mold.

You should reduce your indoor humidity to 30 and 60 percent to decrease mold growth. This can be achieved by venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside. Use an air conditioner and invest in a de-humidifier, particularly in hot, humid climates. Increase ventilation by opening doors and windows and installing ventilation fans. When taking part in moisture-heavy activities such as cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning, use exhaust fans.

If any materials or furnishings get wet, dry them immediately (ideally within 48 hours after the occurrence) to prevent mold growth.

Add insulation to your home to prevent condensation from developing on cold surfaces, such as windows, piping, exterior walls, or the roof.

Do not install carpeting near areas that are always at risk of moisture, such as near a water fountain or on floors with leaks.

Place a plastic cover over dirt in crawlspaces to prevent moisture from coming in from the ground.

To get rid of mold spots, clean the mold off with water and detergent, and be sure to dry the area completely.

If mold has resulted from a leak or dripping faucet, you must fix the source of the water problem to prevent mold growth. If mold has permeated absorbent ceiling tiles or carpet, they might have to be replaced.

Keep in mind there is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment, The way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.

To test for mold or have it removed, consult a contractor or company that is certified in mold treatment. Search on the National Association of Mold Professionals website to find a certified mold inspector near

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