What is mold?
Molds are simple, microscopic organisms, found virtually everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Molds can be found on plants, foods, dry leaves, and other organic material. Molds are needed for breaking down dead material. Mold spores are very tiny and lightweight, and this allows them to travel through the air. Mold growths can often be seen in the form of discoloration, ranging from white to orange and from green to brown and black. When molds are present in large quantities, they can cause allergic symptoms similar to those caused by plant pollen.
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How much does mold removal cost?
The cost of mold removal inside a residential or commercial property can vary quite a bit based on many different factors. A few factors will be HOW MUCH mold there is, WHERE the mold is located, IF the mold is air borne or not, WHAT structural alterations will be needed in order to properly remove and dispose of the mold in the problem area, and what the Reconstruction will cost (or in other words, replacing and/or repairing the structural materials that were removed or altered as part of the remediation process). Once this information is determined the next factors will be based on WHO you hire to do the work. Get quotes and ask LOTS of questions. Also do your homework! The web is full of great information about this topic. Whatever you decide to do, just make sure you do it correctly... removing mold can turn into a health nightmare and a huge expense if not removed correctly.
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Should I be concerned about mold in my home?
Yes. When airborne mold spores are present in large numbers, they can cause allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections, and other respiratory problems for people. Exposure to high spore levels can cause the development of an allergy to the mold. Mold can also cause structural damage to your home. Similarly, when wood goes through a period of wetting, then drying, it can eventually warp and cause walls to crack or become structurally weak.
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What does mold need to grow?
For mold to grow, it needs: food sources - such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt a source of moisture, and air
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Can mold become a problem in my home?
Yes, if there is moisture available to allow mold to thrive and multiply. The following are sources of indoor moisture that may cause problems: flooding backed-up sewers leaky roofs humidifiers mud or ice dams damp basement or crawl spaces constant plumbing leaks house plants -- watering can generate large amounts of moisture steam from cooking shower/bath steam and leaks wet clothes on indoor drying lines clothes dryers vented indoors combustion appliances (e.g. stoves) not exhausted to the outdoors
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How can I tell if I have mold in my house?
If you can see mold, or if there is an earthy or musty odor, you can assume you have a mold problem. Allergic individuals may experience the symptoms listed above. Look for previous water damage. Visible mold growth is found underneath materials where water has damaged surfaces, or behind walls. Look for discoloration and leaching from plaster. However, the most conclusive way to know if you have mold or not, is to consult with a professional.
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How am I exposed to indoor molds?
Mold is found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. It is common to find mold spores in the air of homes and growing on damp surfaces. Much of the mold found indoors comes from outdoor sources. Therefore, everyone is exposed to some mold on a daily basis without evident harm. Mold spores primarily cause health problems when they enter the air and are inhaled in large numbers. People can also be exposed to mold through skin contact and eating.
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How much mold can make me sick?
It depends. For some people, a relatively small number of mold spores can cause health problems. For other people, it may take many more. The basic rule is, if you can see or smell it, take steps to eliminate the excess moisture, and to cleanup and remove the mold properly.
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Who is at greater risk when exposed to mold?
Exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone inside buildings. It is important to quickly identify and correct any moisture sources before health problems develop. The following individuals appear to be at higher risk for adverse health effects of molds: infants and children elderly immune compromised patients (people with HIV infection, cancer chemotherapy, liver disease, etc.) pregnant women individuals with existing respiratory conditions, such as allergies, multiple chemical sensitivity, and asthma.
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What symptoms are common?
Allergic reactions may be the most common health problem of mold exposure. Typical symptoms reported (alone or in combination) include: respiratory problems, such as wheezing, and difficulty in breathing nasal and sinus congestion eyes-burning, watery, reddened, blurry vision, light sensitivity dry, hacking cough sore throat nose and throat irritation shortness of breath skin irritation central nervous system problems (constant headaches, memory problems, and mood changes) aches and pains possible fever
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Are some molds more hazardous than others?
Allergic persons vary in their sensitivities to mold, both as to amount and type needed to cause reactions. In addition, certain types of molds can produce toxins, called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are found in both living and dead mold spores.
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What's the best way to get rid of mold?
The answer depends on how much mold is present and where it is located. It is always recommended to consult with a professional first before attempting to remove mold yourself.
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Is it possible to completely eliminate mold from the inside of a home or office building?
No. Mold is a natural part of the environment. The goal of any remediation is to return the contaminated indoor area to a non-toxic level.
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