Moisture myths can be as hard to dispel as household moisture itself. Indoor moisture originates from a multitude of causes. It can come, go away and come back. It can even be invisible as water vapor in the air. It's no wonder so many long-standing misconceptions surround the subject. However, research into indoor environmental issues has managed to clear the air on a variety of moisture myths.
Here's a list of some traditional moisture mythology versus the real facts of the matter:
- MYTH: Excessive moisture in a home is easy to see, smell or feel. Homeowners are often totally unaware of moisture infiltration. Sometimes moisture tests will reveal sources that have persisted for years without occupants noticing.
- MYTH: Mold is common in all homes whether there's a moisture problem or not. Inactive mold spores may be present in any home. However, these dormant spores require the presence of moisture in order to convert to active-growing mold that releases toxic reproductive spores into household air. Growing mold is a known
source of allergic responses and other physical symptoms. - MYTH: Mold testing can accurately pinpoint the location of moisture sources in a home. Most mold testing is performed by taking air samples. Circulating airborne mold spores disperse far and wide and usually can't be tracked back to the moisture source that activated the mold growth.
- MYTH: It takes years for minor undetectable moisture infiltration to cause major damage. Damage, including mold growth, begins almost immediately when common building materials are exposed to water. As long as moisture continues undetected, damage worsens exponentially. Even if the source of moisture is eliminated, the structure may be compromised until the original damage is remedied.
For more moisture myths and the myth-busting truth, contact the water damage pros at Rytech.
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