Mold and Indoor Air Quality: What Every CNY Homeowner Needs to Know

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is crucial to maintaining a healthy home environment. Poor IAQ can lead to health issues like allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, and even chronic illnesses. One of the most common culprits? Mold.

Green Tree Environmental specializes in professional mold testing and remediation in the greater Syracuse region, including Onondaga, Oswego, Madison, and Cortland counties. If you’re experiencing musty odors, visible mold growth, or unexplained allergies, our team is here to help.

In this article, we’ll explain how mold impacts IAQ and what you can do to keep your home safe.

Understanding Mold Growth

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp environments and is commonly found in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and crawl spaces. While mold spores exist naturally in the air, they rapidly multiply when they land on moist surfaces.

Mold grows best when humidity levels exceed 60%, making the Central New York climate especially prone to mold problems. As mold spreads, it releases spores and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, reducing indoor air quality and causing potential health risks.

How Mold Affects Indoor Air Quality

1. Mold Spores Trigger Allergies and Respiratory Issues: Mold spores are a common allergen, causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. For people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, mold exposure can worsen symptoms and lead to difficulty breathing.
2. Toxic Mold Produces Harmful Mycotoxins: Some mold species, such as black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), produce mycotoxins—toxic substances that can lead to neurological issues, respiratory problems, and long-term health effects. Learn more about how mold affects your health.
3. Persistent Musty Odors: A musty smell in your home often indicates hidden mold growth. These odors are caused by mold spores and VOCs in the air, which can linger until the mold is properly removed.
4. Increased Risk of Infections: Prolonged exposure to airborne mold spores can increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, chronic sinus issues, and weakened immune responses. This is especially concerning for young children, seniors, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality and Prevent Mold

Control Humidity Levels

• Keep indoor humidity between 30%-50% using a dehumidifier.
• Use air conditioners in the summer and exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Monitor humidity with a hygrometer to prevent excess moisture.

Improve Ventilation

• Increase airflow by using fans and opening windows when possible.
• Consider whole-home ventilation systems to maintain fresh air circulation.

Fix Leaks and Water Damage Immediately

• Inspect plumbing, roofs, and windows for leaks.
• Dry out flooded areas within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. How to prevent mold after water damage.

Use Mold-Resistant Materials

• Consider using mold-resistant materials, such as mold-resistant drywall, paints, and insulation for moisture-prone areas when renovating or building. These products are designed to inhibit mold growth, making them ideal for moisture-prone areas.

When to Call a Mold Remediation Professional

If you notice mold growth, musty odors, or increased allergy symptoms, it’s time to call a professional. Green Tree Environmental provides mold testing and remediation services in Central New York, ensuring your home stays safe and mold-free. Our experienced team will assess the extent of the mold problem, provide detailed reports, and implement safe removal strategies to improve indoor air quality.