What Makes Mold Grow?
Mold requires both nutrients and moisture to grow. It is important to remember that mold does not
grow in a dry environment.
Why Are Molds a Concern?
Health experts indicate that the health effects of mold depend on the amount and type of mold in a
home, the degree of exposure, and the health condition of the people living in the home. Some people
are not affected by mold while others may suffer allergic reactions and illness.
Damage to your home is also a concern. Materials get stained or discoloured by mold, and over time
they are ruined. Continued mold growth can cause wood rot and structural damage.
How to Know if You Have Mold in Your Home
Discoloration is a sign of mold. However, all discoloration is not due to mold. Put a drop of
bleach onto a spot that you suspect may be mold. If the stain loses its colour, it may be mold. If
there's no change, it probably isn't mold.
A musty or earthy smell also often indicates the presence of mold.
Preventing Mold
Keep your home dry.
Find and fix water leaks as soon as they occur.
Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans.
Maintain air circulation over window surfaces in winter.
Discard clutter and excess stored materials.
Clean and maintain your home regularly.
Eliminating Mold
Find and fix the moisture source.
Discard moldy or damaged materials.
Clear wet areas. Pull carpets and furnishings away from walls and floors that are wet. Carpets
and underpadding that are moldy should be discarded.
Use a portable dehumidifier, if necessary.
As a temporary measure, isolate the moldy area, if possible. Cover the moldy surfaces with
plastic sheeting that has been secured at the edges with duct tape. This will help minimize your
exposure until you can fix the problem permanently.
Small areas of mold - no more than three patches, each smaller than a square meter - can
be cleaned with a detergent solution.
Bleach is not recommended as you cannot be sure that it will disinfect. Overuse of bleach will
result in more chlorine being put into the air, which can be harmful to the environment.
Always wear a mask, safety goggles and rubber gloves when dealing with mold.
For larger areas of mold, seek professional help.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You may need professional help when:
There are large amounts of mold.
The home is very damp and moist.
Mold comes back after repeated cleaning.
A family member suffers from asthma or respiratory problems or other health problems that
appear to be aggravated inside the home.
Jennifer Zammit , A.C.C.I.
Executive Salesperson
Realty Executives Elite Ltd.
7-515 Wellington Road S.
London, Ontario, N6C 4R3
Tel: 519-649-6900
Cell: 519-933-5201
Fax: 519-649-6933
jenniferzammit@rogers.com
www.jenniferzammit.homesandlan
d.com
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