microscopic dirt on the window and not on the vinyl itself. In this scenario, a simple wipe down cleaning will usually solve the issue. Another example is mould growth on concrete; generally, the growth of the mould is actually on the organic material on the concrete and can be cleaned more simply. Since homes today are constructed out of a large variety of organic materials, they can become a breeding ground for mould, since removing their food source (organic material) is impossible. Because of this, it is best to control the moisture from entering the home, producing condensation, and accumulating or forming on all organic materials within the home. It is not just about water, but moisture. Mould develops and grows efficiently in highly humid areas, including bathrooms, kitchens, cool • landscape slope toward a building • groundwater leaking under foundation • soil crawlspaces • lack of weeping tile or failure of weeping tile • condensation from poor insulation • condensation from elevated humidity in a building • improper use or lack of exhaust ventilation – kitchen, bath fans • improper attic ventilation • initial construction conditions – high moisture sealed into building envelop • improper construction materials – moisture permeability, stucco HE A L T H E F F E C T S O F M O U LD damp basements, cold rooms, and prolonged humid areas (areas in which humidifiers or vaporizers are frequently used). What happens when exposed to toxins produced by mould? Everyone reacts differently to mould, so it’s not possible to identify a specific concentration resulting in negative health effects. Having said that, some of the symptoms common to mould exposure are: • flu-like symptoms • running nose • throat irritation • burning or irritated eyes • skin irritation and rash • aches and pains • irritation in the chest • allergic reactions • asthma trigger (for those who already have a diagnosis of asthma) Figure 3: Mould between layers of drywall – front surface of the wall looked normal however high moisture in the area lead to the opening of this area Sources of Moisture Moisture sources include (but are not limited to): • roof leak – shingles, membrane, flashing • domestic water line leak • sewage line leak • shower/tub surround leak • window leakage Another reason it can be tough to link these symptoms back to mould exposure is that they can be caused by a myriad of other sources, such as dust or indoor air quality exposure to selected chemicals. If flu season is highly active at the time, it will be difficult to determine whether these symptoms are early signs of the flu. If you or a member of your household is persistently feeling these flu-like symptoms, consider if there have been any leakage problems. It may be time to have a mould assessment done to determine if your symptoms are in fact caused by mould.
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