Did you know that your health and the condition of your home are directly related? A recent study found that over 50% of homes in North America have serious mold problems. A study related to this conducted by the Mayo Clinic found that almost all chronic sinus infections experienced by North Americans can be attributed to household moulds.  As a result of moulds the rate of asthma in North Americans has more than tripled during the last twenty years. Mould is also extremely hazardous for individuals with allergies. The reason mould is so dangerous is because it acts as a penetrating agent to the body. This in turn lowers the body’s immune system, thereby increasing one’s chance of getting sick, and eliminating the ability to fight off diseases.

With the ever present Swine Flu and the seasonal flu, ensuring people are taking the necessary precautions to stay healthy is extremely important.

So what can you do to safeguard your home from mould? The first thing you can do is to inspect the most common areas where moulds are found. These are:

• Plumbing leaks that need repair.

• Visible condensation around windows and walls.

• Visible water seeping into the basement.

• Roof or attic leaks.

• Wet carpet and under padding that has not been dried sufficiently

If you notice mould you should clean the area immediately with vinegar, or an eco-friendly mold control spray. You do not need to use harsh, chemical based cleaners. Carpet should be thrown out, and any other washable materials should be washed thoroughly in the washing machine. If your house floods it is essential that the carpet and under padding be thoroughly dried so that mould does not develop. If you have had a flood in the past and did not dry or replace your carpet, or flooring chances are mould has begun to develop.

In order to prevent mould from growing in your home maintain humidity levels at a level between 30%-45%. This can be measured using a hygrometer; these can be purchased for around $20.00. You can maintain humidity levels in your home by using a dehumidifier when needed.

If you are trying to sell your house mould and mildew often smell bad. You may walk into a house and wonder what that musty smell is; often times it is mould or mildew in the walls and/or carpets. A lot of times it is possible to detect mould by simply doing a smell check in your basement, attic, and kitchen. Also, if you find there is a smell the first time you turn on your furnace in the winter you may have mold and mildew in your air ducts.

You can have your ducts professionally cleaned and treated with anti-mould spray. A lot of times the heat in the summer can cause condensation to build up in the ducts. If this is not cleaned, every time you turn on your furnace you are potentially spraying mould and mildew spores throughout your house and subsequently breathing them in.

Mould is a serious problem that many people don’t even know exists. It is important as a home owner to ensure your home is free of mould to ensure the safety of those living there. Also, as previously mentioned if you are planning on selling your home ensure there is no mould present or buyers may be able to identify a musty smell when they are viewing your home. This is a huge red flag to buyers, and agents that a mould problem is present.