What You Need to Know About Molds

What Are Molds and Why Are They a Problem?
Molds are microscopic fungi. In nature, molds use enzymes to eat dead plants and animals.

Under certain conditions, molds can attack materials in your home including wood, drywall, strand board, paper, and any other material that serves as a potential food source for molds. Molds can spread if left unchecked and can cause considerable damage to structural components in the home.

When molds reproduce they use spores. When mold spores are present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems. People vary in their sensitivity to mold spores. Older people, children and people with weak immune systems are the most susceptible, but even the healthiest individuals can experience negative health consequences associated with mold.

The biggest problem is that some molds produce mycotoxins (toxic substances produced by fungi). The term toxic mold refers to molds that produce mycotoxins. Some of these severe toxins cause identifiable diseases or health problems, others weaken the immune system without producing any specific symptoms, some act as allergens or irritants, and some have no known effect on humans.

Some mycotoxins  can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological problems and in some cases death. Prolonged exposure (e.g., daily workplace exposure) can be particularly harmful.

How Do I Prevent Mold?
For mold to grow, it needs two things: moisture and a source of food. Water leaks and basement water problems contribute to the majority of the mold issues we see during our home inspections. High humidity levels are also a major cause. It is imperative that all water leaks be addressed immediately. Mold spores exist in the air that we breathe and will attach to a moist food source, starting the mold cycle. 

One thing to keep in mind is that all homes have some level of mold. The question is: do you have toxic mold? This can be challenging to answer because there are no federal standards for safe levels of mold spores.

 

Do You Inspect for Mold?
We look hard for mold issues in the homes we inspect. If we find mold, we will let you know. However, I will not be able to see mold that is hidden behind finishes, storage items, furniture etc.  If you are concerned about hidden mold you should hire a reputable environmental company that specializes in mold testing and removal.

We do not provide referrals to any specific mold abatement companies, but we strongly advise you to do your homework and work with a reputable company.

 

Want to Know More?

A very good resource on mold from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA):
http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldresources.html

An easy-to-understand mold resource from the American Industrial Hygiene Association:
www.aiha.org/content/AccessInfo/consumer/factsaboutmold.htm