Mold is a type of fungus. It occurs naturally in the environment, and is necessary for the natural decomposition of plant and other organic material. It spreads by means of microscopic spores borne on the wind and is found everywhere life can be supported. Residential home construction is not, and cannot be, designed to exclude mold spores. If the growing conditions are right, mold can grow in your home. Most homeowners are familiar with mold growth in the form of bread mold, and mold that may grow on bathroom tile.
In order to grow, mold requires a food source. This might be supplied by items in the home, such as fabric, carpet, wallpaper, or by building materials such as drywall, wood and insulation, to name a few. Also, mold growth requires a temperate climate. The best growth occurs at temperatures between 40 degrees F and 100 degrees F. Finally, mold growth requires moisture. Moisture is the only mold growth factor that can be controlled in a residential setting. By minimizing moisture, you can reduce or eliminate mold growth.
Moisture in the home can come from many sources. Spills, leaks, overflows, condensation and high humidity are common sources. Good housekeeping and home maintenance procedures are essential in the effort to prevent or eliminate mold growth. If moisture is allowed to remain on the growth medium, mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours.
All mold is not necessarily harmful, but certain strains have been shown to have adverse health effects in susceptible persons. The most common effects are allergic reactions, including skin irritation, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, sneezing, congestion, sore throat and headache. Individuals with suppressed immune systems may risk infections. Some experts contend that mold causes serious symptoms and diseases which may even be life threatening. However, experts disagree about the level of mold exposure that may cause health problems, and about the exact nature or extent of the health problems that may be caused by mold. The Centers for Disease Control states that a causal link between the presence of toxic mold and serious health conditions has not been proven.
You can take positive steps to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of mold growth in your home and thereby minimize any possible adverse effects that may be caused by mold. These steps include:
- Before bringing items into your home, check for signs of mold. Potted plants (roots and soil), furnishings, stored clothing or bedding material, as well as many other household goods, could already contain mold growth.
- Regular vacuuming and cleaning will help reduce mold levels. Mild bleach solutions and most tile cleaners are effective in eliminating or preventing mold growth.
- Keep the humidity in your home low. Vent clothes dryers to the outdoors. Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms by using your exhaust fans, opening windows or running air conditioning to remove excess moisture in the air, and to facilitate evaporation of water from wet surfaces.
- Promptly clean up spills, condensation and other sources of moisture. Thoroughly dry any wet surfaces or materials. Do not let water stand or pool in your home. Promptly replace materials that cannot be thoroughly dried such as drywall or insulation.
- Inspect for leaks on a regular basis. Look for discolorations or wet spots. Repair any leaks promptly. Inspect condensation pans (refrigerators and air conditioners) for mold growth. Take notice of musty odors and any visible signs of mold.
- Should mold develop, thoroughly clean the affected area with a mild solution of bleach after testing to see if the affected area, material or surface is color safe. Porous materials, such as fabric, upholstery or carpet should be discarded. Should the mold be severe, call on the services of a qualified professional.
