The Multiple Dangers of Mold Damage
As a business owner, it is imperative to be alert to whatever liabilities may arise in the future. Early detection of issues and hazards is essential for sustained success, preventing problems before they grow out of control. After all, minor issues can become very costly ones very quickly.
Mold is a perfect example of this threat. It can invisibly grow on our commercial property, often hidden away. But as it lurks in the background, it can wreak significant havoc and damage if not dealt with promptly. Understanding the warning signs of mold damage can help business owners quickly take the necessary actions.
The following red flags are ones for business owners to be alert to:
- Musty Odor: A strong, earthy smell could indicate the presence of mold. Compounds released by mold spores cause this odor. The mold might not be visible, but the musty smell should not be ignored.
- Standing Water: Standing water is a breeding ground for mold growth. Moisture provides the ideal conditions for mold to thrive and spread. Standing water should be dried out, and the source of the moisture should be addressed.
- Excessive Humidity: Mold requires high levels of humidity to grow. If you notice signs like condensation on windows or surfaces, it can create an environment conducive to mold growth. Monitoring humidity levels and maintaining proper ventilation and dehumidification systems can help prevent mold damage.
- Discoloration in the Walls: Look out for patches of black, green, or brown discoloration, as these are common signs of mold damage. Discoloration may occur in areas with poor ventilation—like behind furniture or near water sources.
- Dark Tiles: Areas full of moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens, are susceptible to mold growth. Dark substances or spots on tiles, grout lines, or caulking are tip-offs. Regularly inspecting tiled areas and promptly addressing any signs of mold can help prevent further damage and maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Call ServiceMaster of Bux Mont at (215) 857-9754 if you spot any warning signs.
The Health Risks of Mold
Mold can wreak real havoc, causing everything from medical damage to property damage and even legal exposure.
If you or your employees seem to be experiencing any of the following to unexplained degrees, it’s worth investigating for mold:
- Headaches: The compounds that mold releases into the air can trigger headaches in sensitive individuals. These headaches may range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms, like dizziness or nausea.
- Fatigue: The toxins released by mold, known as mycotoxins, can affect the central nervous system and disrupt normal bodily functions. This can result in fatigue, lethargy, and difficulty concentrating or staying alert.
- Coughing: When individuals inhale mold spores, their immune system reacts, causing inflammation in the airways. This inflammation can trigger coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
- Itchy Eyes: Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions. Individuals with existing eye conditions or sensitivities may experience more severe symptoms.
- Respiratory Problems: Prolonged mold exposure can seriously affect respiratory health. Mold spores can be inhaled deep into the lungs, leading to problems such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and increased susceptibility to infections. Individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions may be particularly vulnerable to these effects.
When these medical conditions flare up at the workplace, your first phone call should naturally be to a doctor. The second call should be to ServiceMaster of Bux Mont so we can investigate your potential mold problem.
The Property Risks of Mold
Mold growth in a property can pose significant risks to its structural integrity. The reason is that mold often facilitates the following issues:
- Weakening of Materials: Mold can gradually weaken and deteriorate organic materials like wood and drywall. As mold spreads and consumes these materials, it can cause them to become soft, spongy, or crumble.
- Rot and Decay: The excess moisture or water damage revealed by mold can result in rot and decay. Rotting materials lose their strength and can compromise the stability of a property.
- Foundation Damage: Mold growth in basements or crawl spaces can affect the foundation of a property. Excessive moisture could seep into the foundation walls, leading to cracks, weakened structural integrity, and even foundation shifting.
- Insulation Compromise: Mold growth on insulation materials, such as fiberglass or cellulose, can reduce their effectiveness. Mold might compromise the insulation's ability to regulate temperature and moisture, impacting energy efficiency and potentially leading to higher heating or cooling costs.
- HVAC System Contamination: Mold spores that infiltrate the HVAC system will spread throughout the property. Not only can this result in poor indoor air quality, but it can also lead to mold growth in ductwork, filters, and other HVAC system components, perhaps causing further damage and reducing energy efficiency.
- Structural Collapse: In the most severe cases where mold growth has been left unaddressed for an extended period, it can lead to structural collapse. Mold can weaken load-bearing elements, compromising the safety and stability of the entire structure.
The Legal and Financial Risks of Mold
What happens if one of your employees gets sick or has a pre-existing condition exacerbated by mold? Moreover, what happens if the property owner was aware of the possibility of mold but neglected to act? The answer is that some lawyers have the chance to start piling up a lot of billable hours at the expense of the business owner.
Workman’s compensation covers health problems traced to mold growth at work. If the employee’s lawyer can prove that the mold problem could have been remedied, a court might consider this negligence, allowing the employee to sue for much bigger damages.
Mold growth that creates musty air can create an unpleasant atmosphere for customers and clients, damaging the bottom line. In addition to the direct financial loss, the business owner could be held liable by any partners or investors if it is found that the mold problem contributed to losses or decreased profit margins. Any way one looks at it, ignoring mold—or even its warning signs—is not worth the risk.
Call ServiceMaster of Bux Mont today at (215) 857-9754.
