What Are the Dangers of Mold & Mildew on Swimming Pool Tile?
Mold and mildew flourish wherever the conditions are right. Good growth conditions for mold and mildew include moisture, warm humidity and insufficient disinfection. Swimming pool tiles and the grout between them can offer a perfect growth medium for mold and mildew. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mold Spore Dangers
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One of the main dangers with the growth of mold is that the mold releases mold spores into the air over time. Mold spores can trigger allergies in those with mold sensitivities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as cause asthma and asthma-like symptoms and lung and upper respiratory infections.
Spread of Mold
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Another danger is that mold spores can travel through ventilation systems, especially air-conditioning ducts, into other parts of homes or buildings and spread mold infestation. Infestation is a serious health hazard, according to the CDC, particularly if the spores come from molds such as Stachybotrys, otherwise known as black mold.
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Mildew Dangers
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Mildew is a type of mold that often flourishes in the cement grouting between tiles, according to the Missouri Families website. Mildew also release spores into the air that can cause respiratory distress, or trigger allergy or asthma symptoms.
Eradication
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To lessen the danger of mold and mildew on swimming pool tiles, tiles and grouting should be scrubbed regularly with a stiff bristle brush, using hot water and detergent. After scrubbing, chlorine bleach is used to disinfect, according to Bob Vila.
Prevention
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Installing glass tile instead of ceramic tile around your swimming pool may help inhibit mold and mildew growth and their dangers, according to Bob Vila. Glass tile does not absorb and hold moisture the way ceramic tile can, so it offers less opportunity for mold and mildew to grow.
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