**Atlanta Bricks: Humidity Hiding Deadly Lung Mold?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe musty smell hits you the moment you step onto the porch. It’s not the pleasant, earthy aroma of a Georgia forest after a rain; it’s a damp, stale odor that clings to the air, a telltale sign of trouble brewing on your brick exterior. In Atlanta, with its notorious humidity, that trouble is often Aspergillus mold, and ignoring it can lead to more than just an unsightly facade.
Aspergillus isn’t just one type of mold; it’s a genus encompassing hundreds of species. While some are harmless, others can be seriously detrimental to your health, especially for those with compromised immune systems. The porous nature of brick, combined with Atlanta’s humid climate, creates the perfect breeding ground for this fungus, making it a common problem for homeowners in neighborhoods from Buckhead to Bankhead.
So, how do you know if you’re dealing with Aspergillus on your brick? Look for dark green, brown, or black staining, often accompanied by a powdery or fuzzy texture. It tends to thrive in shaded areas, particularly on north-facing walls or near overgrown landscaping that traps moisture. Don’t mistake it for simple dirt or algae; mold has a distinct, almost velvety appearance.
Before you reach for the bleach, understand the risks. Aspergillus spores become airborne when disturbed, and inhaling them can lead to aspergillosis, a lung infection. This is particularly dangerous for individuals with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or weakened immune systems. Atlanta’s high pollen count during certain seasons can further exacerbate respiratory issues, making mold exposure even more problematic.
If the mold growth is minor and contained to a small area, you might consider a DIY approach. However, proceed with caution and always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a respirator mask rated N-95 or higher, gloves, and eye protection.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for DIY Aspergillus remediation on brick:
Preparation: Clear the area around the affected brick. Cover any nearby plants or furniture with plastic sheeting. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors, but avoid creating drafts that could spread spores.
Cleaning Solution: Avoid bleach. While it might seem like a quick fix, bleach primarily removes the color of the mold, not the mold itself. It also doesn’t penetrate porous surfaces like brick effectively. Instead, opt for a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) mixed with water, following the manufacturer’s instructions. You can find TSP at most hardware stores in the Atlanta area, from Home Depot on Cobb Parkway to Lowe’s in Brookhaven.
Application: Using a stiff-bristled brush, scrub the affected area with the TSP solution. Apply moderate pressure to dislodge the mold. Avoid using a power washer, as this can force water deeper into the brick and exacerbate the problem.
Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the treated area with clean water. Use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle.
Drying: Allow the brick to dry completely. This may take several days, depending on the weather. Consider using a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process, especially during Atlanta’s humid summers.
Prevention: Address the underlying cause of the moisture. Trim back overgrown vegetation, repair leaky gutters, and ensure proper drainage around your foundation. Consider applying a sealant to the brick to make it less porous.
However, DIY remediation isn’t always the best solution. If the mold covers a large area, is deeply embedded in the brick, or if you suspect it has spread indoors, it’s crucial to call in a professional mold removal service. Companies like AdvantaClean of Buckhead or Mold Busters of Atlanta have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove Aspergillus and prevent its recurrence.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the extent of the mold problem. What appears to be a small patch on the surface could be a much larger infestation lurking beneath. Professionals use specialized tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden mold growth.
Another common pitfall is failing to address the root cause of the moisture. Simply cleaning the mold without fixing the underlying problem is like putting a band-aid on a broken leg. The mold will inevitably return.
After any mold remediation, whether DIY or professional, air quality testing is essential, especially if you have vulnerable individuals living in your home. This involves taking air samples and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. The results will tell you the type and concentration of mold spores present in the air.
Several companies in Atlanta offer air quality testing services, including Environmental Solutions Group and Atlanta Air Pro. They can provide you with a detailed report and recommendations for improving your indoor air quality.
Don’t rely solely on visual inspections. Aspergillus can grow in hidden areas, such as behind walls or under flooring. Air quality testing provides a more comprehensive assessment of the mold situation in your home.
Ignoring Aspergillus mold on your brick exterior in Atlanta is a gamble you can’t afford to take. The combination of the region’s humidity and the porous nature of brick creates a perfect storm for mold growth, posing significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. While DIY remediation might be suitable for minor infestations, professional mold removal services and post-remediation air quality testing are often necessary to ensure a safe and healthy living environment. Take proactive steps to identify and address mold issues promptly, and you’ll protect your home and your health.