Indoor Air Quality

  “Black mold”, suspected  as Stachybotrys chartarum, on this ceiling tile.

Molds (also known as mildew) are forms of fungi found all year round both indoors and outdoors.   Molds growth increases during warm and humid conditions. There are thousands of species of mold and they can be any color and can be detected by its “musty” odor.

Most fungi, including molds, produce microscopic cells called “spores” that can be easily spread in the air. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths or colonies in the right conditions. We are all exposed to fungal spores in the air we breathe.

Why have people been so concerned about mold?   Small amounts of mold growth in workplaces or homes, such as mildew on a shower curtain, are not a major concern. Mold growth should not be allowed to grow and multiply indoors. Large quantities of mold growth may cause nuisance odors and health problems for certain individuals. Also, mold may damage building materials and furnishings.

The key to controlling and correcting mold problems is to first fix the source of the moisture problem, such as repairing a roof leak.   Follow-up by removing any contaminated materials, cleaning surfaces, and finally assuring that the area is completely dry.

 

 

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