Mold Facts
FACT: Mold is more common today than it was 50 years ago
- Changes in construction have resulted in buildings that are more airtight. However, more moisture can be generated and trapped in airtight, air-cooled buildings, making them more susceptible to mold growth.
- Some of the modern construction materials are better nutrient sources for mold. Wall to wall carpeting and ceramic tiled bathrooms can be hiding grounds for mold.
FACT: 30-50% of all structures have damp conditions that may encourage development of mold*
FACT: 50% of homes contain problem molds.
- A new medical study attributes nearly 100% of chronic sinus infections to mold. A 300% increase in the asthma rate over the past 20 years has been linked to mold. - Source - USA Weekend, December 1999.
FACT: Mold knows no geographic boundaries and can be a problem even in cool, dry climates.
FACT: Mold spores are ever present in the environment and will grow when food & moisture are present.
- Mold needs only food, water and a warm place to grow in order to survive.
FACT: Mold can spread and flourish on almost any surface.
- Mold can hide on the backside of drywall, wallpaper or paneling - anywhere moisture is trapped and vapor barriers form.
- Pipes with leaks & condensation, ductwork, ceiling tiles and the underside of carpets & pads are common hiding places for mold.
FACT: Darkness and poor ventilation encourage mold growth.
FACT: Mold can establish, grow and thrive on virtually any substance.
FACT: Just a little mold can affect health.
- Molds produce and release spores and mycotoxins that can reproduce and live for years.
- Mycotoxins can enter the body through the skin or respiratory tract.
- Though not all molds are toxic, all molds are allergens that can adversely affect health.
- The simplest task, such as removing wallpaper or pulling up carpet may allow mold spores to become airborne.
- The science on mold is inconclusive. The amount of exposure necessary to affect health is unknown.
- It is extremely important to limit mold growth and subsequent spore and mycotoxin proliferation.
FACT: Exposure to mold can result in varying intensities of illness.
- MILD - Skin irritations, runny nose, fatigue, coughing, eye or mucous membrane irritation, headaches, difficulty in concentrating or sore throat.
- MODERATE - Cold and flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, nose bleed, dermatitis, nausea, upper respiratory congestion, allergic reactions, hypersensitivity, lung inflammation, short term memory loss.
- SEVERE (EVEN LIFE THREATENING) - Acute or chronic liver damage, impaired or altered immune system, chronic fatigue, bronchitis, asthma. Some studies indicate that exposure to mold may result in some forms of cancer.
FACT: There are three ways to get of mold in your home.
- BUILD IT IN Downed trees naturally grow mold to help them decompose. If lumber is not properly treated, it can be a large culprit in the spread of toxic mold.
- GROW IT All mold needs to grow in your home is food, water and a warm place to grow.
- BRING IT IN Mold can be transferred into your home without you even knowing it. Mold spores can travel on your clothes, your shoes, and your glasses - even on your skin.