A lot of people face the issue of fungus on their walls. Wall fungus decreases the beauty of the home and also poses various health risks. It is rooted in problems like extreme humidity, inadequate ventilation, and water leakages and may lead to respiratory problems and allergies. In this article, we will talk about the causes, consequences and prevention of wall fungus.
See also: How to get rid of black molds?
What are the causes of wall fungus?
Poor ventilation
Poor ventilation is one of the causes of the growth of fungus on walls. When the airflow is limited, moisture gets trapped, making a favourable environment for fungus to grow.
Water leakage
Water leakages can result in dampness on walls, giving a breeding ground for fungus. Regular inspections and repairs are thus vital to prevent this.
Poor insulation
Poor insulation can lead to condensation on walls, which builds up moisture and, hence growth of fungus.
Maintenance issues
Avoiding regular cleaning and wall maintenance can lead to fungus growth. Thus, you should maintain the walls or ceilings through proper cleaning.
Extreme humidity
High humidity can result in the fungus growth. Therefore, areas that have high moisture content, like bathrooms and kitchens, are more prone to fungus.
What are the consequences of wall fungus?
The growth of fungus on walls can have serious health consequences for residents. The mould presence can result in respiratory issues, allergies, and other health hazards. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to mould spores can also lead to asthma attacks and worsen existing respiratory conditions. This is because moulds release toxic substances known as mycotoxins, which further affect human health. These mycotoxins can also cause headaches, dizziness, and neurological issues. In fact, The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that human exposure to mycotoxins can result in chronic fatigue syndrome and immune system disorders.
How to prevent wall fungus?
If you want to prevent the fungus growth on walls, it is essential to maintain proper ventilation and control moisture levels. Consistent inspection and repair of any leaks or water damage is vital. Using mould-resistant paint and cleaning surfaces with antifungal solutions can also help prevent the growth of fungus.
If mould is already there on your walls, you should address the issue promptly. You should hire a professional mould remediation service that is recommended to remove the fungus and prevent its recurrence safely. It must also be kept in mind that wearing protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, is important when dealing with mould to avoid exposure to harmful spores.
FAQs
Can fungus on the wall spread to other areas?
Yes, wall fungus can spread to other areas of the house if left untreated.
How to identify fungus on the walls?
You can identify wall fungus by its different appearance, which includes black, green, or white spots on the walls. It may also have a musty odour.
What to do if I found wall fungus in my home?
If you find wall fungus in your home, you should hire a professional to inspect and treat the affected area.
Can you remove the wall fungus?
Yes, a professional can remove the wall fungus from the walls.
Can I prevent wall fungus growth in new constructions?
Yes, wall fungus can be prevented in new constructions by using proper building materials and techniques. This includes moisture-resistant materials, proper ventilation, and installing a vapour barrier.
How long does wall fungus take to grow?
Wall fungus growth depends on many factors, like humidity levels, temperature, and the type of fungus. Some fungus types can grow within a few days, whereas others may take weeks or months to grow.
Can fungus grow behind wallpaper?
Yes, wall fungus can grow behind wallpaper if there is excess moisture in the walls. This can cause damage to both the wallpaper and the walls.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
Khushi Jha, a graduate in history and political science from the University of Delhi, doesn’t restrict herself to a single domain. Her passion for writing has led her to explore a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from fashion, health and lifestyle to technology, real estate and finance. She has written for platforms like TheVoiceOfWoman, Techsunk, Fitmist and Menskool, among others. When free, she enjoys reading books, including fiction, history and geopolitics.
