The lack of airflow has reduced the amount of fresh air being supplied to the home, thus concentrating the existing indoor air pollutants. Here are some of the more common IAQ problems encountered in homes and some basic strategies for improving the air quality in your home. Any damp conditions in a home can lead to the growth of mold, if not quickly and properly eliminated. These damp conditions can be caused by floods, leaky pipes, or excessive moisture in the home. Molds are microorganisms that cause allergies, asthma and other health problems.
Mold spores are small and lightweight, and thus are easily distributed throughout the house.
Under certain conditions of moisture, temperature and shade, these spores will germinate into entire new colonies of mold. These growths of mold can sometimes be seen as areas of discoloration, ranging from white to orange, and from brown to black. Often mold can not be seen, but rather can be detected by the presence of a musty odor. Molds can produce mycotoxins, which can make you ill. The health effects can include cold and flu-like symptoms, a feeling of general malaise, sore throats, headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, skin rashes and altered immune system function.