How to get rid of fungus contamination in your home

Mould and fungus are a part of our everyday life but it can also damage your home and create serious health problems. Here's how to take control.

Mould is vital for decomposing plants and organic materials, but it can cause problems when it appears in your home. Fungi and mould love the dark and damp areas of your home and they can grow anywhere. These little microscopic spores are usually found around water damage or leaks. They thrive in areas where there is excessive moisture and humidity like showers, damp carpets, cooking areas, and in basements.

• Prevent condensation on pipes, in your ceilings and exterior walls
• Use your exhaust fan when cooking
• Have a dehumidifier and air conditioner to remove moisture from the air. Keep them in good repair and maintain them. And keep the humidity to below 60 per cent
• Use your shower vent
• Reduce the amount of water you use when cleaning carpets
• Do not install carpet in bathrooms or near places that have leaks or moisture

• Windows
• Outer walls
• Insulation around roof
• Carpets
• Floors
• Ceilings
• Sinks
• Pipes
• Refrigerators
• Exhaust fans

A good rule of thumb for ensuring you don’t have mould is to look for where you could have standing water or persistent moisture. If you smell something musty, it's most likely the mould spores releasing airborne compounds.

• Health problems can occur but are more likely to exacerbate existing health conditions like asthma, allergies and those with chronic lung problems
• Allergic reactions caused by Ascomycota, Basidiomycota and anamorphic fungi
• Headaches and migraines
• Cough and congestion including dry hacking
• Lack of focus
• General fatigue
• Eye irritation and itchiness
• Skin irritations
• Runny nose or nasal congestion

Keep in mind that the health risks increase with higher mould levels and is dependent on the type of mould. If you have mould, ensure there are no elderly and pregnant women around the contaminated areas.

• Respirator with a HEPA air filter
• Protective clothes such as coveralls and gloves
• Exhaust fan with a HEPA filter
• Garbage bags to dispose of cleaning products and other contaminated materials
• Be careful with chemical disinfectants as those can create further health concerns
• Use soap and water solutions and avoid chlorine
• Be sure the area is dry when you are done cleaning
• If it is an extreme case of mould, potentially caused by septic or sewer issues, consult professional and industrial cleaning experts