Crawl spaces are a crucial design element in millions of properties. They allow direct access to pipes, HVAC systems, and other essential fixtures, making installations and repairs much easier.
But crawl spaces have downsides too. They’re prone to condensation. They may flood in extreme rainfall. They can become damp if pipes leak.
All of which increase the risk of mold.
Mold poses a number of threats to your property. But it’s mold’s impact on your health that should cause the most concern.
The Minor Health Risks of Mold in Your Crawl Space
Mold spreads through airborne spores. These enter your home through vents and drains, infesting the very air you breathe.
The prospect of inhaling mold spores is enough to turn anyone’s stomach. But that’s not the only physical side effect. You may experience:
- throat irritation
- coughing
- headaches
- wheezing/breathing difficulties
- eye irritation
- skin irritation
Each of these is annoying and uncomfortable but is unlikely to disrupt your life too much. You should consider checking your crawl space for mold if you or members of your family display any of these symptoms without any obvious reason (cold, flu, etc.).
Major Health Risks of Mold in Your Crawl Space
Why is tackling crawl space mold quickly so important?
To protect yourself and your loved ones from the following dangers:
- triggering allergic reactions
- exacerbating asthma
- pain in joints
- feeling lightheaded
- memory difficulties
- weakness/fatigue
These side effects will affect your daily life to a high degree than the aforementioned minor crawl space health risks. You could struggle to remember important appointments, experience discomfort while performing household chores, feel faint and more.
And, sadly, it gets worse.
Mold, especially black mold, is particularly harmful to the following:
- children (due to their developing immune systems)
- elderly people
- those affected by chronic lung diseases
- anyone with a compromised immune system
How Do I Detect Mold in My Crawl Space?
A musty odor is one of the most obvious indicators of mold infestations. You may notice this throughout the home without spotting any signs of damp on the walls or ceiling. It could be passing through your vents or seeping in through cracks.
It’s best to investigate and address an unpleasant smell as soon as possible. Ideally, before any of the symptoms listed above manifest.
You may feel unnerved at the idea of entering your crawl space, even with a torch and gloves. They’re dark, dank places — and maybe home to all manner of bugs.
And that’s not to mention the potential risks of trying to remove mold or repair resulting damage yourself. Especially in cases involving black mold. You need proper safety equipment and gear to handle it securely.
Leave it to the professionals instead. At San Mateo Restoration, we work with experienced, skilled, trained water restoration specialists. They know exactly how to investigate, identify and remove mold safely.
Want to learn more about removing crawl space mold? Have questions about our 24/7 service? Our friendly team is here to help. Call us now!