MOLD CONCERNS

What Is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that consists of small organisms found almost everywhere. They can be black, white, orange, green, or purple. In the Outdoors, molds play an important role in nature. Molds thrive on moisture and reproduce by means of tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. You’re exposed to mold every day.

In small amounts, mold spores are usually harmless, but when they land on a damp spot in your home, they can start to grow. When mold is growing on a surface, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled. If you're sensitive to mold and inhale many spores, you could experience health problems.

Mold is a common concern for homeowners. It can cause health issues, structural damage, and is often a sign of moisture problems in the home. To better understand and address mold, it’s important to know the basics of how it grows and what to do if you find it. 

Here are some key points you can use to educate yourself about mold:

1. Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditions and can be found both indoors and outdoors. It can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, and wallpaper.

2. The key to preventing mold growth in the home is controlling moisture levels and promptly addressing any water leaks or spills. It’s also important to ventilate areas of the home that are prone to moisture, such as the bathroom and kitchen.

3. Mold can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma. It can also cause structural damage if it is allowed to grow unchecked.

4. If you find mold in a home, it’s important to have it professionally remediated to protect the health of the homeowner and prevent further damage to the property. This includes not only removing the visible mold growth, but also resolving the underlying moisture issue to prevent future mold growth.

5. “Mildew” is often used interchangeably with mold, but true mildews are actually plant pathogens and do not grow readily on building materials. If you come across what appears to be mildew in your home, it’s important to properly identify and address it as mold.

6. Addressing moisture and mold issues early can save homeowners an average of $5,000 in remediation costs, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

If you’d like more information about mold or how Cal Tech can help you assess your situation don’t hesitate to contact us at 855-8-LIKENEW.