What Is White Mould and How Dangerous Is It?

White mould is a dangerous variety of fungal species of mould that may appear in high moisture and enclosed spaces with little or no air passage. The appearance of the mould is generally white but may change its colour based on what surface it has affected. Commonly found in dark and moist areas, white mould spreads in areas with minimal airflow. These areas include basements, rain or water-affected wood, leaking walls, or plumbing that seeps within the walls, including wooden flooring and ceilings.

Why does white mould infect a surface?

White mould is particularly attracted to cellulose, an organic fibre usually found in wood. The combination of starch and sugar makes it a perfect food source that helps the mould thrive and spread. Once the mould starts to grow, you may notice mould stains that will also leave a distinct moist smell, and this is one of the first indicators of a white mould-infected space.

Why is white mould hazardous?

White mould can cause fatal repercussions for patients who have asthma or breathing conditions. These not only infect the surface but also cause multiple infectious and allergic reactions to the inhabitants. These include; allergies, eye and skin irritation, headaches or respiratory infections, nausea, and dizziness. It is therefore advisable to stop the spread of white mould as soon as it is detected.

Apart from health reasons, white mould is also dangerous for the surfaces it inhabits. It acts like termites that eat up the wood from the inside, leaving it hollow and weak for any furniture piece or foundation to withstand.

How to treat white mould?

Once you identify the white mould, the next step is to take precautionary measures to remove it instantly before it starts to affect the surfaces and spread out, causing health damage. For mould growth, consult a professional service to take care of the spread and limit the damage. It is inadvisable to use home remedies, as any prolonged contact with the mould without the necessary precautions, protective gear, and equipment to eradicate the source can cause further damage.

Preventive steps to avoid the spread of white mould

Once you have sought professional help, the next step is to take the necessary steps to prevent the regrowth of the mould. Here are specific measures to practice to avoid white mould growth in your home or office:

1. Limit the Moisture: Avoid packing your rooms with no ventilation and airflow. Humidity and moisture are the foremost reasons why white mould starts in the first place.
2. Fix the Leaks: Check for any plumbing issues and fix them so there are no damp or moisture-retaining areas that can affect the walls, floors, or ceilings.
3. Install Air Vents: Ventilative windows or fans can help your room stay dry and moisture-free. Make it a habit to open windows and doors to let fresh air pass through.
4. Remove the infected surfaces: Materials that contain cellulose include paper, wood, and food left out for too long. Any area affected by white mould should be thrown away or removed so that it doesn't affect other furniture pieces or surfaces.
5. Clean your heating and cooling units: Our air conditioners and heaters also need regular cleaning so that there is no moisture or debris buildup.
6. Clean surfaces with bleach: Any surface that appears to have a mould buildup risk should be cleaned with bleach over time. Other chemicals also prevent white mould, but bleaching is said to be the safest way for an unprofessional to maintain cleanliness.
7. Sunlight: Exposing your room to sunlight can be a definite help as it will remove the retained moisture. If your rooms have access to a window that opens to fresh air and sunlight, keep it open for a few minutes every day for it to help.

Conclusion

No matter the mould and its appearance, it is harmful and dangerous to any living being residing within that space. Therefore, quick actions must be taken to remove it instantly with the help of professional help.