Mold is everywhere and can be found in the air, on surfaces, outdoors, indoors, even on the cheese in our refrigerators. It is a microscopic organism that reproduces itself by means of tiny spores which are invisible to the naked eye that float through outdoor and indoor air.
It is part of our natural environment and a necessary process of nature.
Mold's job in nature is to break down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves or dead trees and decompose it.
There are many types of mold that we know of, but none of which will grow without moisture or water.
Outside mold does not pose much of a problem, it's when mold starts growing indoors that the problems begin. Mold can begin growing and spreading indoors when its spores land on surfaces that are wet. Not only can mold destroy things it grows on but it can also cause moderate to severe health issues. Mold is the greatest known health threat to the indoor environment today.
Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Mold affects different people in different ways. Some people may not be affected by mold at all, while others,especially people with asthma may be adversely affected or even have astma attacks when
coming in contact with or around mold infected areas.
Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes. Reactions can be immediate or delayed. In addition mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold allergic and non-allergic people. For more health information on mold you may wish to contact your state or local health department.
The key to controlling mold inside your home is to control the amount of moisture indoors. Mold spores will not grow if moisture is not present.
Make no mistake, mold can cause serious health problems. If you suspect you have a mold issue contact a professinal certified mold inspector and have your home tested. Make sure your home isn't making you sick.
In my next post I will discuss ways to control indoor moisture and how to clean up mold if you already have it.
Steve
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