Moisture: The Reason for Mold
With Jamaica’s recent hurricanes, moisture has caused Mold to be a major problem in the homes and lives of local Jamaicans.
What are they having to deal with?
— It’s necessary to deal with the problem as it can cause burning and watering eyes; nasal and sinus congestion; skin irritation and coughing. It can also aggravate medical problems like asthma, allergies, conditions which weaken immune defences and lung disease, especially in the elderly and the young.
But what of the musty smell that usually accompanies the fuzz?
“Once the place is dried up … the odour will go away,” Mrs. Hincliffe said. This might be easier said than done, judging from the little sunlight we have had since the rains that have pelted the island for so long. —
Read the rest of ‘Mold in Jamaica’ at Moisture: The Mold Problem
6 Tips for Removing Mold
1. Protect your eyes, nose and skin when cleaning mould.
2. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mould growth.
3. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mould growth.
4. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
5. Clean mould off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, carpets, linoleum that are mouldy, may need to be replaced.
6. Clean drapes and carpets when they can dry properly.
Further Recommended Reading :
Joslyn from the MoldBlogger Team
Source: Sacha Walters – Staff Reporter for the Jamaica Gleaner News
4 comments