Flash flooding and heavy rains have caused severe disruption and damage across Sydney, as storms and unprecedented rains continue to lash the city. The humidity soared to 90% on Tuesday and the rain is expected to last throughout the week.
These weather events have overwhelmed many properties, from commercial facilities to homes and offices. Many drainage systems cannot cope and allow water to ingress building envelopes and cause problems with mould. Even properties that have survived any flooding or leaks can still find mould blooming inside due to elevated relative humidity.
Homeowners are reporting staining on ceilings and walls, rising damp, wet and sodden carpets throughout, leading to a proliferation of mould growth to all surfaces and contents that needs mould tests and mould assessment.
Discolouration of plasterboard and timber and white spots on clothes such as cotton shirts and leather shoes could be signs mould has taken hold.
Cleaning, fogging and spraying visible mould can make the problem worse when trying to DIY because as soon as the mould is agitated it can release spores into the air and spread it to other areas of the property rather than containing it. Some materials cannot be effectively cleaned either as the hyphae have grown into the material or substrate. Airing your home always helps, but it can just be a Band-Aid.
Surface mould growth can be unsightly, however, it also presents a significant health risk for susceptible or immunocompromised individuals. Problems include sinus, skin and respiratory infections, headaches, aching joints, asthma, and fatigue and it can often easily be confused with general cold and flu symptoms.
Unless you treat the source and kill it, it will take hold of your home and health. People can develop mould infections, usually in the lungs and can bring on an attack in asthma sufferers.
To prevent mould you need to address the source of moisture. Moisture mapping property and assessing the mould to rectify the problem required experience and a detailed survey. A risk-based approach, instrument readings and physical samples must be taken to generate data-driven conclusions
If you have concerns about mould or moisture prevention and solution within your property or would like to speak to a hygienist or Indoor Environment Professional (IEP), please get in touch by emailing info@jmbec.com.au or calling 02 8339 0312.
