MOLD
Mold
(fungi) is present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. There are more than 100,000
species of mold, at least 1,000 of which are common in America. Species of
Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus are some of the most commonly found
species. Mold most likely grows in bathrooms, basements, and anywhere else where
there is dampness or water. Many types of mold routinely encountered arenīt
hazardous to healthy individuals. Too much exposure to mold may cause a
worsening of such conditions as asthma, hay fever, or other allergies. Fevers
and breathing problems in a vulnerable individual are possible but unusual. When
moldy material becomes damaged or disturbed, spores, which are reproductive
bodies similar to seeds, can be released into the air. Exposure can occur if
people inhale the spores, directly handle moldy material, or accidentally ingest
the spores. Since all molds need water to grow, mold can grow almost anywhere
where there is high humidity, dampness, or water damage. Most often molds are
confined to areas near the water source. Removing the source of moisture through
repairs or dehumidification is crucial in preventing mold growth. Correcting
underlying water damage and cleaning the affected area is the best way to treat
mold. If mold contamination is extensive, a professional abatement company may
be needed.
Excerpts from The New York City Department of Health
& Mental Hygiene, Environmental & Occupational Disease Epidemiology,
"Facts About Mold".
Mold Frequently Asked
Questions
Why is mold growing in my
home?
Molds are
part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by
breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but
indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores;
the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor
air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are
wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or
moisture.
Can mold cause health problems?
Molds
are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot
and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds
produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances.
Allergic reactions to mold are common and include hay fever-type
symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Molds can also
cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold.
How do I get rid of mold?
It is impossible to get
rid of all mold and mold spores indoors, but indoor mold growth can be
controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your
home, you must clean up the mold and also fix the water problem. If you clean up
the mold, but don't fix the water problem, the mold problem most likely will
return.
Who should do the cleanup?
If the moldy
area is less than about 10 square feet, you can probably handle the job
yourself. However:
If there has been a lot of water damage, and/or mold
growth covers more than 10 square feet, consult the EPA's Mold
Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools
and commercial buildings, this document is applicable to other building types.
If you choose to hire a contractor (or other professional service
provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience cleaning up
mold. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in
EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, or the guidelines of
the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
If you suspect that the
heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with
mold, consult the EPA's Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? before
taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it
is contaminated with mold - it could spread mold throughout your home.
If the
water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then
call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged
by contaminated water.
If you have health concerns, consult a
health professional before starting cleanup.
For more
information, read the EPA's A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home.
The above information is provided as a public service by the
Environmental Protection Agency for educational
purposes.