The Fall Season Brings Mold Problems

The continuing dampness from summer participation can contribute to heavy mold growth later in the year. The fall season can bring with it a large amount of mold and mold spores can affect a homeowner's heath.

For many people, symptoms from allergies are usually get worse in the late fall. After the leaves come down or after a rainstorm there is often an increase in mold allergy symptoms. Piles of rotting leaves release mycotoxins and mold spores into the air. The higher humidity causes problems inside the home. During the fall season, windows are usually kept closed in cool weather. However, it's not cold enough for the furnace to run often enough to keep down the moisture levels.

A heavy rainstorm can lead to increased dampness in the basement, again increasing indoor humidity. The cool and damp environment inside the home creates the perfect environment for mold to grow.

Below are some tips to help fight fall mold infestation:

- Put on the furnace or heater a few times a day to help dry out the inside air and prevent dampness.

- Use a dehumidifier in the basement to reduce excess moisture. Set it below 50 percent humidity.

- Keep your house aired out. Open the windows at least once a day to circulate clean air.

- Fix any roof or basement leaks. Be sure drainage runs away from the foundation.

- Repair any water-damaged items or structures from leaking roofs or basements.

- Wipe down bathroom walls with a chlorine and bleach solution (use ratio of one ounce bleach to one quart water) to keep down mildew and fungus.

- Mold can enter a home via shoes that are dirty with wet leaves and dirt. Damp firewood is also a breeding place for mold. Be sure to keep firewood in a dry space, preferably away from living areas.

- Keep your yard raked up and do not allow large piles of leaves to accumulate, especially near the home.

Fall mold allergies have symptoms that are similar to other seasonal allergies. These symptoms can include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, and possibly flu-like symptoms. If you have persistent issues, consider having your home tested for mold contamination.