The Dangers of Car Glass Mold
A little talked about problem is mold that forms on the glass of your car. This is problem is more prone to occur in areas where there is high moisture, during the rainy seasons.
Damp glass is a breeding ground for mold spores. This is especially true for cars that are not used on a daily basis. Mold spores can reproduce in a hurry and be spread throughout your car by the ventilation system.
Mold can cause serious health issue. People who are sensitive to mold can develop symptoms such as eye or skin irritation, nasal or sinus congestion, coughing, sore throat, headache, and wheezing. Those with serious mold allergies may have a serious reaction such as shortness of breath and fever. Those suffering from chronic lung diseases may develop mold infections in their lungs.
To prevent mold from developing in your car the following steps should be taken on a regular basis.
- Roll down windows to provide fresh air ventilation in the car.
- Regularly turn on the heat and defroster to remove dampness from the car.
- If you notice condensation on the interior of your car towel dry the moisture.
- Vacuum the car interior regularly to remove mold spores from the carpeting and upholstery. Clean up food and drink spills immediately.
Vehicles that have been left sitting for long periods of time are more prone to the development of mold. Condensation that pools on windows poses the greatest risk for mold development. If your car, truck, or SUV has not been driven for a long period of time, check the interior for signs of mold growth especially along the edges of the windscreen and rear window. Check the window seals for cracking and inspect interior surfaces for mold with a flashlight or other source of bright light.
If you notice mold, clean the surfaces with a disinfectant to remove the mold. If your inspection reveals mold growing in or on the window seals you will need to contact a professional to remove the mold. In this situation the mold has probably begun to grow inside the door panel.
Mold removal should not be attempted by anyone who is not properly trained. You will risk spreading the mold rather than removing it if you attempt the process yourself.
Mold prevention is the ideal solution but if your car does become infected with mold spores for your safety, let the professionals handle the removal.