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.

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.