Have you ever noticed that musty smell lurking in the damp corners of your crawl spaces or bathroom? That, could be the unwelcome presence of mould. But why does this unwelcome guest seem to thrive in areas with high humidity? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the murky world of mould and its love affair with moisture.
The Science Behind the Slime
Mould, despite its unappealing appearance, is a living organism. Like all living things, it needs water to survive and reproduce. And guess what? High humidity provides the perfect breeding ground, offering an abundance of readily available moisture. Think of it like a buffet for mould spores, just waiting to be devoured and transformed into unsightly colonies.
Here’s How High Humidity Aids Mould Growth
Moisture Magnet: Mould spores, which are microscopic and float through the air, readily absorb moisture from humid environments. The more moisture they absorb, the faster they germinate and start growing.
Food for Thought (or Rather, Mould): Many building materials, like drywall, wood, and fabric, become more susceptible to mould growth when damp. High humidity creates a moist environment where these materials become a food source for mould.
The Condensation Caper: In humid environments, warm air laden with moisture can come into contact with cooler surfaces, leading to condensation. This condensation provides an additional layer of moisture, further fueling mould growth.
The Not-So-Pretty Consequences
Mould growth not only creates an unpleasant aesthetic and odour, but it can also pose serious health risks. Mould spores can trigger allergies, irritate respiratory systems, and even lead to more serious health problems for individuals with compromised immune systems.
Combating the Mouldy Menace
So, how do we keep this unwelcome guest at bay? The key lies in controlling humidity levels. Here are some tips:
- Maintain a healthy humidity level: Monitor humidity levels in your home and aim for a relative humidity between 30% and 50%.
- Increase ventilation: Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and remove moisture.
- Address leaks and condensation: Fix any leaky pipes or faucets promptly. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens while showering or cooking.
- Dry damp areas thoroughly: Don’t let spills or leaks linger. Use dehumidifiers in rooms or crawl spaces where humidity tends to be high.
- Clean regularly: Regularly clean areas prone to mould growth, like bathrooms and kitchens, with appropriate cleaning solutions.
While controlling humidity is key, SAN-AIR offers an extra layer of protection. Its all-natural formulation safely kills 99% of mould, spores and odour-causing bacteria. Being a gel that evaporates and spreads throughout your entire indoor spaces, it provides continuous, hassle-free protection.
By combining these practices with the power of SAN-AIR, you can create a less hospitable environment for mould and protect your health and the well-being of your loved ones.
Share this blog and spread the word! Let’s make Aotearoa a little less damp, a lot less mouldy, and whole lot healthier, together!
