information about mould & mildew

In tropical climates like Singapore, the relative humidity is already set at an excessively high percentage. In fact, in rainy days, it can even reach up to 99%! Unfortunately this also means the growth of unwanted organisms like mould and mildew, which is harmful to both the human body and definitely to our precious valuables and surroundings

What is Mould & Mildew?

Mould and mildew are microscopic fungi that live on plant and animal matter. They can be found almost anywhere; they grow on virtually any substance when moisture is present. In fact, they can actually grow on anything from leather, cloth, wood, paper, carpet and even electronics.

Moulds produce tiny spores to reproduce, just as plants produce seeds. Mould spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. If not controlled, moulds and mildew can continue feeding on its own and spread.

The propensity of growth is greatly affected by the relative moisture in the air and there is no way to eliminate all moulds indoors.

What is Mould Allergy and what are the symptoms?

The festering of mould and mildew has extremely detrimental effects on the human body. To the human body, it is not the moulds themselves that is the main concern. It is the seeds, called spores, released by the fungi, which contribute to mould allergy.
The symptoms of mould allergy show up primarily in the respiratory tract, with nasal symptoms and chest symptoms in some cases. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Clear runny nose
• Itchy watery eyes

Mould allergies can also trigger asthma, with symptoms of wheeze, cough and shortness of breath.

How to stop the growth of mould and mildew?

There is absolutely no way to eliminate mould and mildew but you can control it. The only way to control indoor mould and mildew growth is to control moisture.