Mold Allergies Act Up in the Fall

When the weather begins to turn cold, it’s not uncommon to hear co-workers and family members (and yourself!) sneezing and sniffling more than usual.  Colds and sinus infections are often blamed, but you may discover that you are actually allergic to mold.

Mold allergies are common in the fall due to the amount of damp vegetation that begins to pile up on the ground as the leaves fall from the trees and as we build our firewood piles in anticipation of those cold winter nights.  Allergy symptoms mimic cold symptoms like runny noses, coughs and itchy eyes, but according to this article, some allergy symptoms could be as severe as a blood or lung infection!   This article recommends raking leaves and cleaning out gutters as soon as possible, storing firewood outside the house, and checking your basement and checking your home for mold regularly, especially in places more susceptible to water leaks and drips.

Also, this source reminds us that ventilation fans are a must to improve our indoor air quality during the transition from summer to winter.  We often begin to close our windows, but not turn our furnaces as the air gets a little chillier.  This makes the inside of the house cooler and damper and, thus, more likely to be prone to developing a mold problem.   Thought not as effective for mycotoxins, HEPA filters can be a tool in helping combat mold by reducing the spore count.

The best way to combat allergies, mold and mildew caused by excess moisture in your home is to stop it at the source, before it enters through your basement slab or crawlspace. A HomeAire Active Dampness Control System keeps out 1,000 gallons or more of water vapor per year, is energy-efficient, and – unlike other ventilation methods and products – will not create negative pressure, a frequent cause of additional indoor air quality issues.