Mold - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are molds?

Molds are tiny microscopic organisms that typically grow in dark damp places. They consume oxygen and digest organic matter. They reproduce by releasing a huge number of spores. Molds are a type of fungi, part plant and part animal. There are over 100,000 known species of mold from benign to highly toxic.

What are molds good for?

In nature, mold helps to decompose dead organic material and convert them to useful substances like fertilizer. Molds are only a real problem when they invade homes or other occupied spaces.

Why do molds grow in a home?

Mold enters occupied spaces in the air as tiny spores. The spores need to find moisture to start growing. Since mold can grow on almost any surface including most building materials it can cause a lot of damage in a short time.

What are the most common sources of moisture?

Humidity or wetness that is caused by water leaks or high humidity is the main cause of mold growth. Some common sources are bathtubs, showers, condensation from your air conditioner, small water pipe leaks, leaky roofs, flooding, leaking toilets or sinks, improperly vented appliances, or many other sources can cause mold to grow. Uncontrolled humidity from a poorly functioning air conditioner or humidifier can also be a source of moisture and can also lead to mold growth, particularly in a hot, humid climate.

How can I get rid of all mold and spores?

Since there is no way to get rid of all the molds and mold spores from your home the key to controlling mold growth is containment. You can control mold growth by keeping your home dry and control mold spores with a good filtration system.

Could I have been exposed to mold?

You can be exposed to mold in several ways, by breathing air containing mold spores by touching moldy items, by eating moldy food or by accidental hand to mouth contact. If you or your family members suspect that you have been exposed to mold, you should consult with your physician and test your home for mold.

Do normal molds affect my health?

Some molds are harmless as long as you are healthy. Mold exposure can cause negative health effects on people with or without a sensitivity to them so mold should be removed from households and businesses as soon as possible. Even exposure to dried up dead mold can cause health problems. Common symptoms are skin rash, aggravation of asthma, eye irritation, cough, runny nose, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing. People who have allergies or asthma are often very sensitive to molds. People with a weak or compromised immune system or lung problems may be at a greatly increased risk of lung or other infections.

What about Toxic Molds?

Black or toxic molds produce a group of toxins called mycotoxins. When people are exposed to high levels of mycotoxins they can suffer a number of serious conditions. These include fatigue, nausea, headaches, lung irritation, eye problems and many others.

What are the Signs of Mold?

The most common signs of mold are a musty odor or the presence of small black or white specks. These specks often appear along your damp bathroom or basement walls. Unfortunately mold is often hidden behind walls or ceiling tiles making it very hard to spot visually so testing is often required.

When should I test for mold?

If you suspect mold is present the best way to be sure is to test for it. If you investigate you should protect yourself from exposure in the same way as you would for a mold clean-up.