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Mold

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What Is Mold?

Molds are microscopic members of the fungus family. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or is not corrected. Molds typically grow in large, flat clusters that appear like fluffy or fuzzy masses, ranging in color from white, to blue-green to black.

What Are Some Symptoms of Mold Exposure?

Mold spores are small enough to remain airborne and enter the body when they are inhaled. Although most molds are harmless to healthy people, those with a weakened immune system, including infants, children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with asthma, appear to be more sensitive to mold. If these people inhale mold spores or handle moldy materials, they may experience: Congestion Constant headaches Coughing Irritated eyes Nose/throat irritation Shortness of breath Skin Irritation Wheezing

How Does Mold Grow?

The key to mold control is moisture control. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they can begin to grow rapidly. Like pollen, mold spores are extremely small and can stay suspended in the air almost indefinitely. Therefore mold is extremely difficult to filter from the air.

What Does Mold Need To Grow?

Food sources - such as wood, leaves, paper, or dirt Source of moisture Place to grow

Can Mold Become A Problem In My Home?

Yes, if there is moisture available to allow mold to thrive and multiply. The following are sources of indoor moisture that may cause problems: backed-up sewers clothes dryers vented indoors combustion appliances (e.g. stoves) not exhausted to the outdoors constant plumbing leaks damp basement or crawl spaces flooding house plants - watering can generate large amounts of moisture humidifiers leaky roofs shower bath steam and leaks steam from cooking wet clothes on indoor drying lines

How Am I Exposed To Indoor Molds?

Mold is found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. It is common to find mold spores in the air of homes and growing on damp surfaces. Much of the mold found indoors comes from outdoor sources. Therefore, everyone is exposed to some mold on a daily basis without evident harm. Mold spores primarily cause health problems when they enter the air and are inhaled in large numbers. People can also be exposed to mold through skin contact and eating.

Are Some Molds More Hazardous Than Others?

Allergic persons vary in their sensitivities to mold, both as to amount and type needed to cause reactions. In addition, certain types of molds can produce toxins, called mycotoxins, that the mold uses to inhibit or prevent the growth of other organisms. Mycotoxins are found in both living and dead mold spores. Materials permeated with mold need to be removed, even after they are disinfected with cleaning solutions. Allergic and toxic effects can remain in dead spores. Exposure to mycotoxins may present a greater hazard than that of allergenic or irritative molds. Mycotoxins have been found in homes, agricultural settings, food, and office buildings.

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