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Copyright © 2004 Independent Home Inspections
. All rights reserved.
Revised: April 20, 2005
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| Mold. ..literally, a growing concern.
National media attention has alerted the public to the destructive and
possibly toxic dangers of hidden mold spores that could affect their
family's health their homes. EPA studies indicate that air levels of air
pollutants may be two to three times higher than outdoor le Mold, the most
dangerous offender of all, often goes undetected because of its
invisibility. Most people spend as much as I of their time indoors and are
not aware of the health hazards created by this pollutant. You owe it to
yourself to minimize exposure to mold spores in the indoor environment,
test mold today!
Can MOLD cause health
problems?
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Mold has the potential to cause health problems
and even n a home uninhabitable. However, everyone is affected different
when in contact with mold. The mold that may not bother the seller may
severely affect the buyer. Some mold can produce allergens, irritants and,
in some cases, potentially toxic chemical substances known as mycotoxins.
People who are sensitive exposed to mycotoxins can become ill. Allergic
reaction mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. People
diagnosed with allergies and asthma may be very sensitive to n Mold can
cause asthma attacks. Others at risk may include: infant children, the
elderly, immune compromised patients, pregnant women and individuals with
existing respiratory conditions.
With exposure, even in small amounts, mold may
cause:
 | Itching or irritation of the nose, eyes,
throat or skin |
| Mysterious skin rashes |
| Sinus infections or congestion / sinusitis
(runny nose) |
| Respiratory problems (sneezing and coughing) |
| Upper or lower respiratory infections |
| Fatigue |
| Frequent headaches |
| Trouble concentrating, memory lapses,
confusion |
| Mood swings, anxiety, depression |
| Chronic aches and pains |
| Digestive problems |
Where is MOLD found in the
home?
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Mold can be found in several areas in the home environment. It appears
most often in moist area: little black circles or thread-like white
objects. I usually accompanied with a musty-type o Outdoors, mold plays a
natural part in environment by breaking down dead organic matter such as
dead trees or fallen leaves. Mold reproduces by means of microscopic
spores; the spores invisible to the naked eye and float through the indoor
and outdoor air. Mold begins to grow indoors when mold spores land on
surfaces that are wet or damp. Mold will not grow without water or
moisture. Therefore, it is important to dry water-damaged areas and items
within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growing.
Some examples of places where mold can be found inside the home
include:
| Basements, kitchens (bottom of fridge), around bathroom vanities,
washer/dryer area |
| The underside of carpets and pads |
| The surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms) |
| Ceilings and the top side of ceiling tiles |
| Front and back side of dry wall, wall paper or panel |
| Inside HVAC systems and duct work |
| Clothing |
| Food |
How can I reduce or
eliminate MOLD inside my home?
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It is impossible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores
indoors. Mold will always be found floating in the and in house dust.
Indoor mold growth can be prevented by controlling water and moisture
indoors. The following may prevent or reduce indoor mold growth:
| Repair any water leaks |
| Provide good air circulation |
| All HVAC systems should have a good electrostatic filter on the
return |
| Use bathroom, kitchen and laundry room exhaust fans |
| Insulate and ventilate attic and crawl space areas |
| Clean, dry or remove items that are damaged by water immediately |
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