What is mold?

Mold is a naturally occurring substance that evolved on earth long before man. Mold is part of the fungus family, there are over 100,000 known species of mold. Mold releases enzymes that break down organic material. It plays a vital role in decomposing dead plant matter, and has given us valuable medicines against bacteria like penicillin. The trouble arises from the fact that mold can also break down the organic matter like our houses, and cause health consequences in our bodies.

What causes mold to grow?

Mold needs three things to grow - food, water and the right temperature. Mold thrives in the same temperature range that humans generally prefer (48°F to 70°F), and mold feasts on components of wallboard, carpets and other common household furnishings and construction materials. Therefore, the only real way to control mold is to eliminate its water source.

How can you tell if it's mold?

Usually the musty odor, because sometimes you can’t see mold. It comes in a variety of colors other than the commonly known dark green, black or brown. You should use a home testing kit, or call in an expert for a home inspection.

Besides a musty odor, or the staining, crumbling or swelling of plaster and the separation of baseboards, the following are problem signs of mold:

Mold and/or Mildew – Fungus that grows in damp, dark areas, causes discoloration, musty smells and odors.

Musty Odors – This is the result of the decay process from mold, mildew and dry rot.

Dry Rot – Dark brown/black fungus. Grows on walls.

What are the potential health effects of mold?

The link between mold and serious health effects is still being studied, but there is no longer any question that mold causes respiratory symptoms (asthma) and allergic reactions (sneezing, coughing, watery eyes...). A Mayo Clinic study has shown that nearly 100% of chronic sinus infections are due to mold. Other adverse heath symptoms that can be caused by mold can be:

• Nosebleeds
• Runny note
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• Sore Throat
• Chronic Coughing
• Eye Irritation
• Watery Eyes
• Dizziness
• Loss of Balance
• Skin rash
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Memory Loss

Mold is emerging as a health and safety issue in many areas of the country. Studies have shown that nearly 50% of U.S. homes contain enough mold to cause respiratory symptoms.

Who is most at risk of adverse health effects from exposure to mold?

The elderly

Young children & infants

Pregnant women

People with asthma

People with allergies