Taos Mold: Adobe Hiding Youth Lung Harm?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe scent of piñon smoke hangs heavy in the Taos air, a comforting aroma that speaks of tradition and home. But beneath the rustic charm of many adobe homes in this high-desert haven lurks a silent threat: mold. It’s a problem often overlooked, yet it can significantly impact the respiratory health of residents, especially those with sensitivities.
Adobe, while beautiful and sustainable, is inherently porous. This porosity, coupled with the region’s fluctuating temperatures and occasional heavy rains, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold.
Let’s dive into how to tackle this issue head-on, specifically for Taos residents.
First, let’s identify the usual suspects. Aspergillus and Penicillium are common molds found in damp environments, and adobe is no exception. Cladosporium, another frequent visitor, thrives on plant matter, making it particularly fond of the organic materials sometimes mixed into adobe.
These molds release spores into the air, which, when inhaled, can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. Prolonged exposure can even lead to more serious health issues.
So, how do you know if you have a mold problem in your adobe home?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to DIY mold testing, tailored for adobe structures:
Visual Inspection: Look for visible signs of mold growth. This often appears as discoloration (black, green, brown, or white) on walls, ceilings, or floors. Pay close attention to areas prone to moisture, such as around windows, doors, and plumbing. Adobe walls may show efflorescence (a white, powdery deposit) which can sometimes be mistaken for mold, but it’s usually mineral salts leaching out. However, mold can grow underneath efflorescence, so investigate further.
Smell Test: A musty or earthy odor is a strong indicator of mold, even if you can’t see it.
Surface Testing (Tape Lift Method): This is a simple and inexpensive way to collect a sample for analysis. You’ll need clear tape (like Scotch tape), a clean cotton swab, and a sealable plastic bag. Press the tape firmly onto the suspected mold growth area. Peel it off carefully and immediately stick it onto the inside of the plastic bag. Label the bag with the date, location of the sample, and your name.
Air Testing (Optional): For a more comprehensive assessment, consider an air test kit. These kits typically involve placing a petri dish with a growth medium in a room for a specified period. The collected spores are then sent to a lab for analysis. However, air tests can be less reliable than surface tests, as spore counts can fluctuate.
Lab Analysis: Send your samples (tape lift or air test) to a reputable mold testing laboratory. A quick online search for “mold testing labs New Mexico” will provide options. Ensure the lab is accredited and provides detailed reports identifying the types and concentrations of mold present.
Now, let’s talk remediation. Dealing with mold in adobe requires a different approach than in conventional drywall construction.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to DIY mold remediation in adobe homes, keeping in mind the material’s unique properties:
Safety First: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a respirator (N95 or higher), gloves, and eye protection.
Identify and Eliminate the Moisture Source: This is the most crucial step. Mold cannot grow without moisture. Common sources include leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, condensation, and poor ventilation. Repair any leaks and improve ventilation in affected areas. Consider using a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels.
Contain the Area: Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting to prevent the spread of spores to other parts of the house.
Clean the Mold: For small areas (less than 10 square feet), you can attempt to clean the mold yourself. Use a solution of diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercially available mold cleaner specifically designed for porous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products. Apply the solution to the affected area and scrub gently with a soft brush.
Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, ensure the area is completely dry. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Adobe takes a long time to dry, so be patient.
Monitor and Prevent Recurrence: Regularly inspect the area for signs of mold regrowth. Address any moisture issues promptly. Consider applying a mold-resistant sealant to the cleaned area to prevent future growth.
Challenges and Pitfalls:
Misidentifying Efflorescence: As mentioned earlier, efflorescence can be mistaken for mold. A simple test is to wipe the area with a damp cloth. Efflorescence will dissolve, while mold will not.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products: Harsh chemicals can damage adobe. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
Inadequate Drying: Failing to dry the adobe thoroughly after cleaning is a common mistake. This can lead to mold regrowth.
Ignoring the Moisture Source: Simply cleaning the mold without addressing the underlying moisture problem is a temporary solution. The mold will inevitably return.
DIY for Large Areas: For mold infestations larger than 10 square feet, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove the mold.
Local Resources in Taos, New Mexico:
Taos County Environmental Health Department: They can provide information on mold prevention and remediation.
Local Mold Inspection and Remediation Companies: Search online for “mold inspection Taos NM” or “mold remediation Taos NM.” Be sure to check their credentials and read reviews.
New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (NMMFA): NMMFA offers home improvement loans and grants that can be used for mold remediation. Check their website for eligibility requirements.
Habitat for Humanity of Taos County: They may offer assistance with home repairs, including mold remediation, for low-income homeowners.
Community Action Agency of Taos County: They may have programs that can help with home repairs and energy efficiency upgrades, which can indirectly address moisture problems.
Financial Aid Options:
Addressing mold can be expensive. Fortunately, several financial aid options are available for low-income homeowners in Taos:
NMMFA Home Improvement Loans and Grants: As mentioned above, NMMFA offers financial assistance for home repairs, including mold remediation.
USDA Rural Development Loans and Grants: USDA offers loans and grants for home repairs in rural areas, including Taos County.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): WAP provides funding to improve the energy efficiency of low-income homes. This can help reduce moisture problems and prevent mold growth.
Local Churches and Charities: Many local churches and charities offer assistance with home repairs for those in need.
Remember, addressing mold in your adobe home is an investment in your health and the longevity of your property. By following these steps and utilizing local resources, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment in your beautiful Taos home. Don’t let the charm of adobe be overshadowed by the hidden threat of mold. Take action today!