While the threat of mould may not be news to those living in Australia’s more humid regions, troublesome and hazardous infestations can occur in any home, in any part of the country. Leaky roofs or pipes, heavy rain, flooding, poor ventilation, or even overuse of humidifiers can all contribute to an environment where mould can thrive. Left untreated, mould can result in damage to building materials, reduced air quality, and musty odours. Worse still, exposure to mould spores has been linked to a range of health concerns, from itchy eyes to severe respiratory issues. Luckily, with products like Concrobium Mould Control, it’s never been easier to fend off mould and prevent it from returning in the future.
A Mould Problem Means a Moisture Problem
If you keep the moisture out, you keep the mould out. Simple, right? Unfortunately, life is unpredictable. Thunderstorms, leaking washing machines or flash floods can strike when you least expect, threatening to turn your home into a mould and mildew battle ground. Whether you’re dealing with a patch of damp carpet or a full-on water damage restoration project, there are a few simple steps you can take to get on the front foot against potential mould growth. Once the source of the excess moisture is addressed, your priority is to target any residual dampness. In some cases, this will mean completely removing water damaged materials like carpet, underlay and plasterboard. From here, areas should be dried using fans and dehumidifiers. If you’re quick, you might be able to stop an infestation before it happens.
What to Do When You Find Mould
While mould can sometimes develop in hidden areas and wall cavities, more often than not it will be out in plain sight — especially in humidity hotspots like bathrooms and laundries. What may initially appear as a stain or small spots of discolouration can grow rapidly. 24-48 hours is all it takes for an infestation to take hold, so it’s best to act fast. The first step is to ascertain the extent of the infestation. While larger, more severe, or recurring cases may call for professional assistance, many mould issues can be remedied yourself with the right precautions and tools. Ensure you are prepared with a face mask (ideally a P2 respirator), rubber gloves, and eye protection at a bare minimum. The affected area should be isolated, and proper ventilation ensured. Additionally, make sure your home is clear of children, pregnant or elderly family members, and those with respiratory conditions like asthma.
Pick a Non-Toxic Mould Remover
At this point, many would be tempted to reach for the bleach or ammonia — but there are safer and more effective options available. While harsh chemicals will wipe out mould on many smooth surfaces, they won’t penetrate porous materials such as wood or plaster; meaning the roots of the mould can regenerate easily. You could find yourself back to square one within weeks. Concrobium Mould Control is formulated to eliminate existing mould and protect against further growth. Once applied to an infected surface, Concrobium neutralises the mould at the source as it dries, then forms an anti-microbial barrier to prevent further growth — all without the use of harsh chemicals. If staining remains, Concrobium can then be re-applied with gentle scrubbing until the surface is clean. Concrobium Mould Control products are available from the cleaning section of yourlocal Bunnings Warehouse.