There are many things that can make the windows of your Barrie area home appear dirty. Dirt, dust, and debris are the most common culprits of dirty windows. These are easy to remedy simply by a quick cleaning of your windows. However, other substances may be a bit more difficult to easily clean. Mold on windows can be quite tricky and can lead to other issues if not quickly and properly removed.
The following article will discuss how mold can accumulate on your Barrie windows as well as how to clean and prevent mold from forming.
Removing Mold on Windows
Facts about Mold
Mold is a fungal living organism that grows in damp and dark areas. Also, it can develop in those areas with inadequate ventilation. Mold can form as either a single cell or multi-cellular organism. Mold can start to form as soon as 24 hours after exposure to moisture or humidity.
Mold tends to grow in such areas of the home as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens due to high levels of moisture. It can also form on walls, carpets, and household furniture. Mold around windows can also form under the right conditions.
Mold is especially harmful to those who suffer from such ailments as allergies, asthma, COPD, emphysema, or other breathing conditions. Symptoms of mold exposure can include such breathing issues as asthma attacks or wheezing, eye irritation, like watery and itchy eyes, as well as fatigue and skin issues.
Black mold contains mycotoxins, which can lead to serious issues, such as damage to the central nervous system and in some cases, even death. Mold issues should not be taken lightly once they are discovered.
Why Mold on Windows Is an Issue
The window in your home can play a role in mold growth. As mold forms in areas that have been exposed to a great deal of moisture, mold on windows can be a common occurrence. Your windows are prone to condensation, as they are a source on which the cold air outside clashes with the warm air inside your home. If this condensation is not cleared, it can lead to mold formation.
In addition, mold can accumulate on the foundation surrounding your windows. This is especially true if your window frames or walls contain wood. Proper installation will help prevent mold on windows as well as on the inside of your walls.
How to Properly Get Rid of Mold on Windows
It is possible to remove mold from windows on your own. However, if the mold growth is greater than one square meter, it is recommended to call a professional to safely remove the mold.
If you are going to attempt to remove mold on windows yourself, you must comply with the following protocol:
- Make sure that you have the proper gear to safely remove mold. This includes long-sleeved shirts and pants. Besides, you should wear a dust mask, rubber gloves, and safety glasses or goggles.
- First, thoroughly cleanse the area with unscented dish soap and warm water.
- Next, make a mixture of baking soda and water on the drywall.
- Apply white fermented vinegar to the affected area and allow to sit for about half an hour. Wash the area thoroughly with warm water and a sponge.
- You can also use a 3% solution of Tea Tree Oil (or 2 cups of water with 2 teaspoons of Tea Tree Oil) to disinfect the area.
- Be sure to properly dispose of any cleaning materials. Wash your clothes immediately. If you cannot wash them right away, bag them and keep them away from other items in your home until they can be washed. It is best to dispose of all items once you have removed mold on windows.
- Never use bleach to clean mold infected areas, as it is not effective. It will just mask the mold by bleaching it rather than killing it.
- It is imperative that mold growth is killed in its entirety, or else it will simply grow back.
If you suspect that you have mold on windows that you cannot remove with the above steps, call the experts at Atlant Windows. We can advise you on how to treat mold or if it is time to call in a professional.
