**Atlanta Asthma: Is New Construction Hiding Lung Mold?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe musty smell hits you the moment you walk in. It’s subtle, almost unnoticeable at first, but it’s there. You just moved into your brand new Atlanta home, a symbol of your hard work and future dreams. But that smell? It’s a warning sign, a potential harbinger of respiratory distress lurking within the walls.
Atlanta’s booming real estate market means new construction is everywhere. But rapid construction, coupled with Georgia’s notorious humidity, can create the perfect breeding ground for mold, turning your dream home into a health hazard. This isn’t just about a little mildew in the bathroom; we’re talking about potentially serious health consequences, especially for those with asthma.
This article is your guide to navigating this hidden threat. We’ll explore the link between Atlanta’s new construction and mold-related asthma, equip you with the knowledge to identify and test for mold, and provide a step-by-step remediation plan to safeguard your health and home.
The connection between new homes and mold isn’t some conspiracy theory. It’s a confluence of factors specific to Atlanta and its construction practices. Think about it: new homes are built quickly, often with materials that haven’t fully dried. Add in Atlanta’s high humidity, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
Common construction flaws exacerbate the problem. Improperly sealed windows and doors, inadequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, and even leaks in the roof during construction can all trap moisture, leading to mold growth behind walls and under floors.
One particularly vulnerable area is the HVAC system. If the system isn’t properly installed or maintained during construction, dust and debris can accumulate, providing a food source for mold spores. This can then circulate mold throughout the entire house.
But how does this translate to asthma symptoms? Mold spores are microscopic particles that can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks when inhaled. For individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, even small amounts of mold can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Children are particularly vulnerable. Their developing immune systems are more susceptible to the effects of mold exposure, and they often spend more time indoors, increasing their exposure.
So, you suspect you have mold. What do you do? Don’t panic. The first step is visual inspection. Look for telltale signs like discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors. Pay close attention to areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
That musty odor is another key indicator. If you smell something funky, even if you can’t see any visible mold, it’s worth investigating further.
Next, it’s time for testing. You have two options: DIY kits or professional mold inspection. DIY kits are readily available at most hardware stores, but their accuracy can be questionable. They typically involve taking a sample of a surface and sending it to a lab for analysis.
The problem with DIY kits is that they only test for surface mold. They won’t detect hidden mold growing behind walls or in other inaccessible areas.
A professional mold inspection, while more expensive, is a much more thorough and reliable option. A certified mold inspector will use specialized equipment, such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, to detect hidden moisture and mold growth.
They’ll also take air samples to determine the type and concentration of mold spores in your home. This information is crucial for developing an effective remediation plan.
If you opt for professional inspection, make sure the inspector is certified by a reputable organization, such as the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) or the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC). Don’t just hire the cheapest inspector you can find; you want someone with the expertise and experience to accurately assess the problem.
Let’s say you’ve confirmed the presence of mold. Now what? Remediation is the process of removing and cleaning up mold-contaminated materials. The scope of the remediation will depend on the extent of the mold growth.
For small areas of mold (less than 10 square feet), you may be able to handle the remediation yourself. However, for larger areas, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company.
If you decide to tackle the remediation yourself, be sure to take proper precautions. Wear protective gear, including a respirator, gloves, and eye protection. Contain the affected area to prevent the spread of mold spores.
Use a HEPA vacuum to clean up any visible mold and debris. Then, clean the affected surfaces with a mold-killing solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
For professional remediation, the process typically involves:
- Containment: Sealing off the affected area to prevent the spread of mold spores.
- Removal: Removing and disposing of mold-contaminated materials, such as drywall, carpet, and insulation.
- Cleaning: Cleaning and disinfecting the remaining surfaces with a mold-killing solution.
- Drying: Drying the affected area to prevent future mold growth.
- Testing: Conducting post-remediation testing to ensure that the mold has been effectively removed.
One common mistake homeowners make is simply cleaning the visible mold without addressing the underlying moisture problem. If you don’t fix the source of the moisture, the mold will simply grow back.
Another mistake is using bleach to kill mold. While bleach can kill surface mold, it doesn’t penetrate porous materials like drywall. It also creates a breeding ground for mold to return.
Preventing mold growth in the first place is always the best strategy. Here are some tips for keeping your Atlanta home mold-free:
- Control humidity: Use dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity levels below 60%.
- Ensure proper ventilation: Make sure your bathrooms and kitchens are properly ventilated.
- Fix leaks promptly: Repair any leaks in your roof, plumbing, or windows immediately.
- Clean gutters regularly: Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and mold growth.
- Inspect your home regularly: Look for signs of moisture or mold growth, especially in areas prone to moisture.
Atlanta residents have access to several resources for mold inspection and remediation. The Georgia Department of Public Health offers information on mold and indoor air quality.
The EPA also provides guidance on mold remediation and prevention. Several local companies specialize in mold inspection and remediation. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable company with certified professionals.
Don’t let mold steal your peace of mind in your new Atlanta home. By understanding the risks, knowing how to identify and test for mold, and taking proactive steps to prevent and remediate it, you can protect your respiratory health and enjoy your home for years to come. Remember, a healthy home is a happy home.