Many People Spend 90% of Their Time Inside: Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

Spending a significant part of your day indoors is common for many people, which places great importance on the indoor air quality at home. Poor air quality can affect your health, comfort, productivity, and your overall well-being. During times of the year with less-than-ideal weather conditions like cold winters, long rainy days, or hot and humid summers, the dangers of mold in your home increases. Knowing the signs of poor air quality due to mold is an important step in correcting the problem.

Mold, Indoor Air Quality and Your Health

When the tiny mold spores enter and circulate through your home, it can quickly become detrimental to your health. Poor air quality caused by mold in your home will affect family members who have allergies, respiratory issues, or are immunocompromised more quickly and more severely. Inhaled mold spores can lead to respiratory infections, asthma attacks, bronchoconstriction, and trigger allergies characterized by a runny nose, increased sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. Prolonged exposure to reduced indoor air quality due to mold has also been associated with chronic organ inflammation and longer term neurological health issues.

Don’t Let Mold Spoil Your Sanctuary: Signs You Need Mold Remediation

Your home’s indoor air quality is the foundation of your healthy safe haven. While some signs of mold are obvious, other hazardous indicators can hide in plain sight. Below are some signs that you should enlist the assistance of experts for mold remediation to improve your air quality.

Visible mold growth: A dark green or black fuzzy-looking substance will start to appear and spread on surfaces like walls, ceilings, floors, HVAC vents, windowsills, on furniture or drapes.
Odor: A distinct musty smell that persists in areas of poor indoor air quality and little air circulation.
Water damage: Leaks, condensation, and recent flooding require immediate attention to prevent mold growth.
Deterioration of Materials: Mold that has settled and begun to consume organic materials like wood, drywall or insulation may start to warp, crumble or cause paint to bubble or peel.
Past mold problems: A home with a history of mold damage should be inspected and monitored by a mold remediation expert to mitigate any future recurrence of mold growth.

How Healthy Indoor Air Quality Boosts Your Health

A home with good indoor air quality reduces the likelihood of respiratory issues like asthma and allergies, and increases your overall physical and mental health. With minimal mold, dust, pollen and dander microparticles in the air, there is a lower risk of infections and cardiovascular issues. Studies have analyzed the connection between higher air quality and lowered risk of depression, anxiety and an overall increased mental health. Children living in homes with high air quality show better cognitive skills, including math and reading testing scores.

Five Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality

To mitigate the health risks associated with mold and maintain good indoor air quality, it’s important to control humidity levels by keeping indoor levels below 60% to discourage mold growth. Keep the home properly ventilated by ensuring effective ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas. Frequently inspect and address any water leaks and water damage and regularly clean and dust indoor spaces to reduce the accumulation of mold spores. Use dehumidifiers and air purifiers to assist with air quality efforts and address any mold issues promptly to maintain a healthy indoor environment and minimize the impact of mold on your health.

Contact MSR Restoration for Air Quality Testing and Mold Remediation

Because the majority of our time is spent indoors, the air quality affects our health and quality of life. The experienced and friendly team at MSR Restoration uses the latest technology and equipment for safely testing your home’s indoor air quality and inspecting for mold. Along with the results, you’ll get a comprehensive assessment and personalized recommendations for improving your air quality and if needed, complete mold remediation recommendations. Contact MSR today and improve the air you’re breathing!