MOLD & MUSTY ODORS
Mold spores are an essential part of our natural environment, and are prevalent both indoors and outdoors. They are detrimental in our homes when they cause health issues and structural damage.
Even when exterior water sources are minimized, moisture in indoor air can build up from poorly vented combustion sources such as showers, cooking, laundry, and breathing. High indoor relative humidity and stagnant air are ideal for mold growth and damp unventilated basements are perfect breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Just because you don't see mold growing in your home doesn't mean it's not there.
Musty odors are a gaseous byproduct of mold growth, and you may be smelling and breathing them in daily.
Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths when they find the right conditions. They only need a few things to grow and multiply:
- Moisture - Moisture keeps them chemically active.
- Nutrients - Feed on building materials, fabrics, wood, etc. that are saturated.
- Suitable environment - Warm temperature and stagnant air.
Exposure to molds can adversely affect your health by causing allergy symptoms, respiratory difficulties, such as asthma and other ailments. It can damage the structure of your home by causing wood to rot and beams to buckle. The contents of your home are also at risk of being destroyed by mold.
How badly your house becomes infested with mold and musty odors is determined by a number of factors, including air circulation, possible leaks and amount of organic materials present. Depending on the severity of the problem, mold may be found growing on walls, doors, carpeting, clothes, books, and other items. Mold grows in the form of dark or very white spots. In many cases you can't see it, but you can smell it. If your house smells like a musty basement, then molds may be present.
WAVE Solution
While using a dehumidifier will not increase ventilation, WAVE’s continuous controlled ventilation will both reduce excess moisture and increase air exchange which deprives mold spores of the nutrients and conditions they need to thrive. Preventing the stagnation of damp air and extracting moisture from the structure are the most crucial factors in reducing the favorable environment for indoor mold growth and musty odors.
