FAQ Mold

How can someone be exposed to MOLD?

There are several ways you can become exposed to mold:

• Breathing in the spores from the air.
• Skin contact from handling an item that has mold growing on it.
• Eating without properly washing your hands after handling moldy objects.

Can MOLD cause health problems?

• The most common symptoms of mold exposure are runny nose, eye irritation, cough, congestion, and aggravation of asthma.

Mold has the potential to cause health problems and even make a home uninhabitable. However, everyone is affected differently when in contact with mold. The mold that may not bother the seller may severely affect the buyer. Some mold can produce allergens, irritants and, in come cases, potentially toxic chemical substances known as mycotoxins. People who are sensitive and exposed to mycotoxins can become ill. Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. People diagnosed with allergies and asthma may be very sensitive to mold. Mold can cause asthma attacks. Others at risk may include: infants, children, the elderly, immune compromised patients, pregnant women and individuals with existing respiratory conditions.

With exposure, even in small amounts, mold may cause:

• Itching or irritation of the nose, eyes, throat, or skin.
• Mysterious skin rashes.
• Sinus infections or congestion/ Sinusitis (runny nose)
• Respiratory problems (Sneezing and coughing)
• Upper and lower respiratory infections.
• Fatigue
• Frequent headaches
• Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, confusion.
• Mood swings, anxiety, depression.
• Chronic aches and pains.
• Digestive problems.
• ADHD-like symptoms in children

Where is MOLD found in the home?

Mold can be found in several areas in the home environment. It appears most often in moist areas as little black circles or thread-like white objects. It is usually accompanied with a musty-type odor. Outdoors, mold plays a natural part in the environment by breaking down dead organic matter such as dead trees or fallen leaves. Mold reproduces by means of microscopic spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through the indoor and outdoor air. Mold begins to grow indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet or damp. Mold will not grow without water or moisture. Therefore, it is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Some examples of places where mold can be found inside the home include:

• Attics, Basements, Kitchens (bottom of fridge) around bathroom vanities,
  washer/dryer area.
• The underside of carpets and pads.
• The surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms).
• Ceilings and the top side of ceiling tiles.
• Front and backside of dry wall, wallpaper or paneling.
• Inside HVAC systems and ductwork.
• Clothing.
• Food.

How can I reduce or eliminate MOLD inside of my home?

It is impossible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores indoors. Mold will always be found floating in the air and in the house dust. Indoor mold growth can be prevented by controlling the water and moisture indoors.

The following may prevent or reduce indoor mold growth:

• Repair any water leaks.
• Provide good air circulation.
• All HVAC systems should have a good electrostatic filter on the return.
• Use bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room exhaust fans.
• Insulate and ventilate attic and crawl space areas.
• Clean, dry or remove items that are damaged by water immediately.