The Facts about MOLD.

 

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 at minimum, 4 simple ways to help eliminate mold in your home, the first two being the extreme:

• REMOVE EVERYTHING (including sheetrock, carpeting, etc.) where mold has invaded along with the source of moisture
• PAY A CERTIFIED REMEDIATION SPECIALIST to remove the mold and mold source.
• USE Quality Mold Removal product. (most case scenario)
• Use an Air Purifier that combines filter, UV, RCI, and is Ozone Generating. (Most of the units you see advertised on T.V. do not do the job. We can help. ) 

                Source – http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/425.htm

     

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