Attics often provide an ideal environment for molds of all kinds. They thrive in damp, musty spaces. Most people don't bother to go into their attic more than once or twice a year when retrieving holiday decorations or seasonal items, which gives it ample time for molds to spread undetected. If unexplained illnesses have been plaguing your household, or if trips to the attic are usually followed by what seem to be a common cold or the flu, there may be toxic molds present.

Identification

Attic mold is usually white, green, brown or black in color. On wood or drywall, it can look like a discoloration or stained area, in large to small splotches, or smaller spots and speckles. It can also look like a light powdery coating or skin. It is usually found on the ceiling or walls of the attic, especially where there is dampness, poor ventilation, or the surface is worn. It can often be found in creases and corners, as well as inside or behind insulation.

Types

Many types of attic mold are harmless, so finding mold in your attic should not alarm you, especially if there have been no illnesses in the house. There are some types of molds that pose health risks ranging from minor to extremely severe. Allergenic molds, if inhaled in moderate to large amounts, can irritate the sinuses or respiratory system. Pathogenic molds are mainly a threat to people who already have compromised immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS or autoimmune disorders. Mycotoxic molds are far more dangerous to everyone; these molds can attack the immune system, and in some cases they are deadly.

Effects

The effects of allergenic molds can cause allergies associated with the flu: coughing, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, sinus infections, sneezing, sore throat and asthmatic-like symptoms such as wheezing and breathing difficulties. Unlike the flu, these symptoms will persist, and even after treatment will continuously return. More serious mycotoxic molds can lead to mental confusion, depression, brain damage, can cause cramping, aches, swelling, and joint pains, are carcinogenic, and miscarriages in pregnant women. People with suppressed or underdeveloped immune systems are more susceptible to mycotoxic molds, as well as pathogenic molds, which can cause diseases and infections.

Size

The size of mold also contributes to it's risk factor. Small spots or speckles of mold on a surface are far less harmful than mold that covers several feet in area and has spread deep into cracks, crevices and throughout insulation. More important than the size of mold is the amount of exposure to it. Air usually travels upwards, so attic mold is less risky than mold on the main floor. Additionally, if a house is well insulated and the attic is rarely used, few mold spores may make their way down into the main living area.

Prevention/Solution

The best way to prevent mold in attics is to ensure the space is well ventilated and free from dampness and moisture. Check for roof leaks regularly and repair them promptly. On routine inspections, if some mold is detected, it should be tested for the type of mold. Harmless and allergenic molds can be removed by the home owner, but pathogenic and mycotoxic molds should only be removed by professionals. Remove any mold promptly to prevent it from spreading further.

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