Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction to Molds
Molds produce tiny spores to reproduce. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or un-addressed. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
* See also: An Introduction to Molds at http://www.epa.gov/mold/append_b.html
What are the potential health effects of mold in homes?
The National Center for Disease Control ("CDC") indicates that mold exposure does not always present a health problem. However, some people are sensitive to molds and may experience allergy-type symptoms, such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, or wheezing, when exposed to molds. Others have even more severe reactions to molds, such as fever and shortness of breath, especially if exposed to large amounts of molds. People with chronic illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs.
What is toxic mold?
According to the CDC there are some case reports that "toxic" molds, those containing certain mycotoxins (literally "fungus poisons"), inside homes can cause pulmonary hemorrhage or memory loss. These case reports are rare, and a causal link between the presence of the toxic mold and these conditions has not yet been proven, although studies are still underway. Stachybotrys chartarum (a.k.a. Stachybotrys atra) is a greenish-black mold that is often referred to as "toxic" mold.
Is all black mold toxic Stachybotrys?
No, there are many black-colored molds. For example, the black mold commonly found in bathrooms is not Stachybotrys. Stachybotrys can only be identified by mycologists (biologists that study fungi) through microscopic exam.
Are all molds "toxic"?
No. There are thousands of different kinds of mold, but only a few are considered "toxic."
How do molds grow inside a home?
The CDC indicates that molds naturally grow in the indoor environment. In fact, mold spores are everywhere and travel through the air. When mold spores drop on places where there is excessive moisture or where there has been flooding, mold will grow. Many building materials, such as ceiling tiles, wood and wood products, wallpaper, insulation materials, drywall, and carpet support mold growth when wet.
How can mold be eliminated?
Mold can be found almost anywhere. There is no practical way to completely eliminate all mold growth. Mold can be controlled, however, by controlling moisture. * Stop all water leaks first. Repair leaking roofs and plumbing fixtures. Move water away from concrete slabs and basement walls. * Increase air circulation within you home, especially along the inside of exterior walls, and ventilate with fresh air from outside. Provide warm air to all areas of the home. Move the larger objects away from the inside of the exterior walls just a few inches so as to provide some good air circulation. * Use exhaust fans in the bathroom, kitchen and laundry room * Check the attic for proper ventilation and insulation, including crawl spaces. * Clean and dry water damaged area's, carpets, clothing, bedding, upholstered furniture within 24 to 48 hours. * Vacuum and clean your home on a regular basis.
Are there any standards for mold contamination?
Currently there are no EPA regulations or standards for mold contaminants. However, California has enacted legislation that requires the California Department of Health Services to set permissible mold exposure limits.
Are there any circumstances where people should vacate a home or other building because of mold?
These decisions have to be made individually. If you believe you are ill because of exposure to mold in a building, you should consult your physician to determine the appropriate action to take.
Can I be exposed to mold?
When molds are disturbed, their spores may be released into the air. You then can be exposed to the spores through the air that you breathe. If you directly handle moldy materials, you can be exposed to mold and mold spores through contact with your skin. Eating moldy foods or hand-to-mouth contact after handling moldy materials is yet another way you may be exposed.
When is mold considered a problem?
You may have seen white thread-like growths or clusters of small black specks along your damp bathroom or basement walls, or smelled a "musty"odor. Seeing and smelling mold is a good indication that you have a mold problem. However, you cannot always rely upon your senses to locate molds. Hidden mold can be growing behind wall coverings or ceiling tiles, as they can hide anywhere.
Resources: http://www.cdc.gov/mold/ Environmental Protection Agency Mold resource: If you have IAQ and mold issues in your school, you should get a copy of the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit. Mold is covered in the IAQ Reference Guide under Appendix H - Mold and Moisture.