Wet Summers Increase Fall Mold Problems

Many areas of the Northeast experienced a large amount of rain this summer. This dampness can contribute to heavy mold growth, which can end up effecting homeowners.

Allergy symptoms are often worse in the late fall. After the leaves come down or when it rains often leads to greater mold allergy symptoms. Outside, rotting leaves fills the air with mold spores and mycotoxins. Higher humidity can also cause problems inside, as well.  During the fall season, windows are typically closed against the cooling weather, but it’s not cold enough for the furnace to run very often.

Heavy rain often leads to increased basement dampness. This combination of factors leads to cool and damp conditions inside the home. These create the perfect environment for mold to begin causing problems.

Here are a few tips to help fight mold during the fall season:

• Turn on the furnace or heaters a few times a day to help heat and dry out the inside air.
• Keep your house aired out.
• Use a dehumidifier in the basement. Set it below 50 percent humidity.
• Repair anything that is water-damaged from leaking roofs or basements.
• Wipe down bathroom or basement walls with a chlorine-bleach solution (1 ounce bleach to 1 quart water) to reduce fungus and mildew.
• Mold enters the home through wet leaves on shoes and damp firewood. Store firewood in a dry space, such as the garage.
• Keep your yard leaf-free.

Symptoms of typical fall mold allergies are usually similar to seasonal allergies. Symptoms can include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and even flu-like symptoms.

H&H provides mold testing and removal services for Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.