Mould problems affect almost one third of Australian households according to a recent survey by Finder.

Mould is more prevalent in the northern states where rainfall and humidity is generally higher providing ideal conditions for growth.

But it is also common in Adelaide and something as simple as a leaking pipe is often to blame.

The presence of mould is often a warning sign of the existence of a plumbing issue.

Mould can trigger serious health problems with respiratory issues among the most common.

The best way to prevent mould occurring is with regular plumbing maintenance.

Professional maintenance and repairs are integral to the running of a mould-free and healthy home.

What is mould?

Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp or humid environments.

It often appears as a black, green or white smear, smudge or stain but may also be grey, orange or brown.

Indoors, it typically appears on poorly ventilated areas on surfaces such as tile grout, wood or plasterboard.

Mould emits tiny spores in its efforts to reproduce.

These spores travel through the air and can grow on other accommodating surfaces.

They can also enter the body when we breathe in or swallow contaminated food, triggering sneezing, coughing, wheezing, respiratory infections, skin and eye irritations.

People with weakened immune systems and asthmatics are particularly at risk.

Black-greenish mould often carries the stachybotrys chartarum species which irritates the immune system and can be particularly harmful to humans and animals.

The relationship between plumbing and mould

Mould problems in houses are primarily caused by one or more of the following:

• Slow leaks in pipes, fittings, fixtures or toilets

• Blocked drains causing water overflow or seepage

• Faulty hot water systems leaking or producing excess condensation

• External drainage issues causing water pooling near walls and foundations

• Poor ventilation increasing humidity in bathrooms, laundries or kitchens

When these leaks, pools of water or condensation occur behind walls, under floors or in damp, dark, tight spaces conducive to growth, the risk of mould problems is extremely high.

In Adelaide, a combination of sun and rain tends to create the perfect conditions for mould to thrive.

Hence, mould problems are most likely to occur in the months of May through to September.

Signs you may be experiencing mould problems

There are a number of telltale signs that mould may be present or is at risk of developing, even if you can’t yet see it.

They not only indicate the likely presence of mould but also a plumbing issue that demands urgent attention.

These signs are:

• Black, green or white stains on walls, ceilings or floors

• Peeling or bubbling paint

• Water stains or discolouration

• Musty, damp odours

• Unexplained damp spots

• Warped floorboards

• Persistent condensation

• Unexplained health symptoms by household members

What to do when you encounter plumbing issues and mould problems

It is important to act swiftly when you encounter any kind of a plumbing issue, especially one that could lead to the growth of mould in the home.

While do-it-yourself mould removal might seem like a reasonable first course of action, it is little more than a band aid if an underlying plumbing problem remains.

The mould will return!

James Smith Plumbing can find the source of any leak, repair it and advise you on how to improve maintenance and drainage in and outside the home to reduce the likelihood of mould problems.

In severe cases, JSP will also work with mould remediation specialists once all plumbing issues are resolved.

This may involve chemical solutions to remove hard mould on surfaces as well as using an air filtration system to remove airborne particles.

But to eliminate the return of mould, regular plumbing maintenance is the best preventative measure.

DIY mould removal

For minor cases, mould removal may be attempted yourself.

It is however advised to always wear protective clothing such as a shower cap, gloves, eye protection and a P1 or P2 face mask.

Use a microfibre cloth on any mould, rinsing it regularly in fresh water.

Never dry brush moult because it can send spores into the air, putting you at risk of ingesting them as well as increasing the likelihood of it spreading throughout the house.

Undiluted vinegar in a spray bottle is probably the safest and most effective weapon against mould in tight corners or on wooden surfaces

For walls, a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution in a spray bottle is preferred.

For soft furnishings with very small amounts of mould, one tablespoon of baking soda in 500ml of water is a solution that can be applied to the affected areas.

But furnishings with any more than very minor infestation should be discarded.

Get expert plumbing support today

Mould problems can put a real dampener on home life.

They should never be ignored for two big reasons.

Firstly, mould can cause serious health problems for your family.

And secondly, its very presence indicates a likely plumbing issue – potentially a serious one.

If you detect a leak, discover mould, sense unusual dampness or a musty smell that won’t quit James Smith Plumbing is on hand to put your mind at ease.

JSP is one of South Australia’s most dependable and trusted plumbing companies.

They are proud of their reputation for authenticity, reliability and friendly service.

They can give your home and its plumbing system a thorough inspection, repairing any known leaks, finding the source of any undetected ones and advising you how to best resolve your mould problems.

In serious cases, they will work closely with professional mould removal experts to ensure your home is clean, dry and free of potentially toxic spores.

Best of all, JSP is also on hand 24/7 to attend to any and all types of plumbing emergencies.

Call James Smith Plumbing today on 0411 206 046 at the first sign of a problem and for all your plumbing advice and maintenance needs.

You can rely on JSP for the highest standards of workmanship and a minimum of fuss.