Dangers of Mouldy Drywall

A fungus is neither a plant nor an animal but a living thing that has characteristics similar to each and belongs to its own separate kingdom. Mould is a type of fungus that is common in homes that can grow on drywall if there is a leak in the wall or ceiling that allows it to get wet. It may not seem dangerous but it can be if permitted to grow and spread. When you find out about the potential dangers of mould, you will understand the importance of calling promptly for drywall services in Regina to deal with the problem right away.

Damage to Property

Mould needs three things to grow: moisture, warmth, and food. Mould feeds on organic material. Drywall panels contain wood particles that provide food for mould. The sun provides warmth in the summer, and when the temperature drops outside, your home’s furnace provides the necessary heat. However, neither of these things matter if the mould doesn’t have water.

Fungi reproduce asexually by producing and releasing one-celled reproductive units called spores. Mould spores remain dormant until they come in contact with water, which activates them to grow. Drywall contains crystallized water, but that isn’t enough to activate the mould spores. However, if the drywall gets wet, the spores can become activated. When mould starts growing on drywall, it can cause stains that are next to impossible to remove because the fungus sinks into the porous material of the drywall. Often, the only solution is to call drywall services in Regina to replace the affected panels.

Widespread Growth

As long as mould has food and water, it grows very quickly and starts spreading. The longer you wait to replace a drywall panel infested with mould, the more opportunity it has to spread to other panels and the larger the job ends up becoming.

As mould is growing, it produces new spores. These can become airborne. If they get pulled into the HVAC system, mould may start growing in the ducts. The HVAC system can spread mould spores all over the house. They may land on porous materials, such as carpets or furniture, and start growing there if they have sufficient moisture. Because these materials are porous, mould is almost impossible to remove from them, meaning more household items that you have to replace.

Health Effects

Approximately 20% of the population has environmental allergies, of which allergies to mould make up a big part. People with mould allergies are particularly sensitive to certain types of mould, including Alternaria, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium. Though the spores themselves are harmless, the immune system in people with mould allergies recognizes them as a potential threat and produces an inflammatory response to fight it off. Symptoms of mould allergies are usually mild and include congestion, sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. However, a severe reaction may affect a person’s ability to breathe. People with asthma may be triggered by mould spores. Replacing affected drywall before the mould has a chance to spread is important because even if the spores do not affect you, you may have a family member who is sensitive to them.

Some types of mould may have negative effects on anyone, regardless of allergies. For example, black mould produces substances called mycotoxins that may cause symptoms such as nosebleeds, headaches, pain, and fatigue. However, research has yet to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between mycotoxins and illness. Nevertheless, taking unnecessary risks with your health, and the health of your family, is rarely wise.

Call Handyman Connection for Drywall Services in Regina

It is better to call for the replacement of mouldy drywall early before the fungus has a chance to spread. Nevertheless, we can still help you even if you need multiple panels replaced due to mould growth. Call us for drywall services and other home repairs.