Dampness, darkness, and poor ventilation are primary factors that cause mold to grow. A common myth about the mold growth is that it grows majorly in basements where it is dark and damp. Mold growth not only affects the walls but also can adversely affect the health of the family members if not removed on time. Chimneys in the house can develop these molds especially if there is a leakage; if moisture reaches the chimney somehow, the dark, moist place will become an ideal place for the mold to grow.
The major health problems caused by molds include respiratory troubles, rashes on the skin, eye infection, and long-term illnesses. Certain typical types of molds as “Black Mold” have been known to cause pulmonary troubles and nerve damages. Children and adults who have weak immune systems are prone to allergies caused by molds. Therefore, it is important to know about the chimney molds and to deal with it timely. An important question is how to know if there is a mold in the chimney or not. One can know by observing the physical changes in the masonry like discoloration, flakiness or crystallization on the surface, this sign will indicate towards the moisture problem. Any moisture is a direct invitation to mold as it feeds on moisture and darkness. If one smells musty odor that also is another indication pointing towards the mold growth.
Deal with Chimney Mold
The deal with chimney mold dealing with the moisture problem is the key. Mold growth on the outer area of the chimney can be cleaned with an antifungal solution, but for people who have asthma or are prone to airborne allergies attempting such clean up should be done only after doctor’s consent. The mold should be cleaned properly. Otherwise, it will spread and cause greater problems. For inner mold growth experts should be approached to clean up the chimney. There are dedicated, certified chimney sweeps that can come to clean the chimney mold. The advantage with these certified chimney sweeps are that they not only clean the mold, but also stops it from spreading.
All measures should be taken to prevent the moisture to seep in again after the cleaning is done. Chimneys are exposed to harsh weather conditions and require maintenance time to time. A chimney should always be sealed with a water sealant to avoid the penetration of moisture. Before sealant is applied all necessary chimney repair work should be done. If bricks are damaged than changing the bricks become necessary. Only sealant will not help in that case. Installing stainless steel covers to prevent rain from entering the chimney is a good alternative to prevent future mold growths. Faulty or leaking chimney caps should be replaced with cemented chimney caps. A very useful application is expansion joints which can be installed during the cementation of chimney caps. The expansion joints have the quality of preventing the harm caused by freezing or melting or harsh weather conditions. Chimney molds should be treated on time to avoid damage to the building and harm caused to health.
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