Here at ProCare Restoration, we know that the holidays are an incredibly special time for those who celebrate. Whether you’ve been lighting the menorah, setting up the Christmas tree, or you’ve been celebrating in any other way, you know that this time of year is a very special one. Families are brought together, and happiness is in large supply.
If you’re celebrating with a Christmas tree this holiday season, you may have noticed a few changes in the health of yourself or your family members. Christmas trees are a great holiday symbol, and there’s no reason anyone should be fearful of them. However, they have been known to occasionally bring some harmful allergens in your home in the form of mold spores.
A Christmas tree can be perfectly green and healthy and still have a substantial colony of mold living in it — and the mold usually isn’t even visible. Don’t fret — this mold is very rarely toxic mold. But even mold that isn’t toxic can have some serious effects on the health of you or your family members. A common symptom of non-toxic mold exposure is an allergic reaction — stuffy nose, runny eyes, wheezing, and a cough. This is often the effect that Christmas trees have on families.
In fact, studies have shown that mold spore counts in homes with Christmas trees are about 5 times higher than normal. Researchers are recommending that, if anyone in your home has mold sensitivity, you should only keep a Christmas tree in your home for between 4-7 days.
As long as your home doesn’t have a serious moisture problem, the mold will likely leave your home as soon as the Christmas tree does. If you’ve recently had a flood or have any leaky pipes, we’re available both for a free mold inspection as well as flood recovery and restoration, as mold colonization is much more likely for you.
So, don’t hang up your Santa hat just yet. Moldy Christmas trees are annoying when they cause allergies, but they don’t pose any serious risks to your home unless you have moisture damage. In short — celebrate Christmas, and get a Christmas tree — if you choose. At the very least, we hope you spend some time with your family.
Peace of mind during the holiday season is essential for your happiness and relaxation. So, breathe easy (figuratively, if you have allergies), and call us if you’re at all worried about long-term problems. We’re here to help.
Happy Holidays from your favorite mold and flood specialists at ProCare Restoration!
