Significant and prolonged periods of wet weather across swathes of the country have seen demand for mould removal services increase significantly. Many Australians are learning the hard way that mould is incredibly common during damp spells and difficult to remove safely.
Once there has been significant wet weather, it can take as little as 48 hours for mould to start growing in a home. It depends on the type of home, the ventilation available, the water exposure and the humidity inside the building. Humidity especially can accelerate the growth of mould particles.
Homeowners are urged to look out for a feeling of dampness in the home, condensation on windows or walls, and a musty smell. The two ways that mould begins in homes are high humidity levels and water exposure. Water from leaks or floods can quickly result in a mould infestation if not dried out properly. That risk is increased when the humidity is greater than 70 per cent.
Homeowners are warned that water-sourced rooms in the home are the most likely places that mould will first appear, although adjacent bedrooms can also succumb.
As soon as mould growth is identified, homeowners should act swiftly. Cleaning the mould yourself is possible, but the general rule of thumb is if it is larger than a dinner plate, call an expert.
The key point from most experts is to prevent mould from entering your home in the first place. Lowering the humidity in the home by using an air conditioner on dry mode, or using a dehumidifier, is an excellent start, as well as ensuring the home is well ventilated when the outside humidity is low.
Additionally, focusing on the points of ventilation in the home can prevent a build-up of dampness. Ensuring adequate ventilation in bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens can go a long way to making sure the house stays dry.