What are molds?

Molds are microscopic fungi. Mushrooms and yeasts are other forms of fungi. Molds are essential for breaking down plant materials such as leaves and wood. They produce microscopic, reproductive spores, which are easily distributed on air currents. Molds are found both indoors and outdoors. Typical indoor and outdoor molds include Cladosporuim, Penicillium, Alternaria, Aspergillus and Mucor. Normally, indoor air concentrations of mold will be roughly a third of the concentrations seen outdoors. Higher indoor concentrations indicate an ongoing source of contamination, which should be eliminated.

Health Effects

For persons who are allergic to mold, exposure can cause irritated eyes, sore throat, nasal and sinus congestion, wheezing and possibly fever. Mold may cause respiratory infections in persons suffering from immune suppression. Under the right conditions, molds release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which are responsible for the typical mildew or musty odor associated with mold. These VOCs can cause nasal and sinus irritation and dizziness. Some molds produce mycotoxins, which inhibit the growth of other organisms. It is believed that mycotoxins evolved to prevent competing organisms from consuming limited food sources. Mycotoxins are used as antibiotics such as penicillin. The significance of exposure to airborne mycotoxins remains controversial and additional studies must be conducted to evaluate their health effects.

Conditions Promoting Mold Growth

Mold will grow on any organic material in the presence of moisture or high humidity. Flooding and condensate in cool, moist basements or bathrooms can lead to mold growth. Mold will grow on moist carpets, drywall, fiberboard, wallpaper, wood products including cardboard and paper, clothing, and leather.

Leaking roofs, windows and plumbing should be repaired immediately. Humidity levels should be kept below 50% using air conditioning or dehumidifiers. Mold can be removed with weak bleach and water solutions (one cup of bleach to one gallon of water). Contaminated drywall and carpeting can not be repaired and must be removed and disposed of.

Mold Removal

A qualified mold remediation contractor should remove extensive mold contamination using standard methods to prevent contamination of clean areas. Accident Prevention Corporation can review your situation and give you a free estimate for safe and efficient clean up. Call the Safetyman at 815.337.7785 to arrange an appointment, or email the Safetyman at safetyman@careful.com

Mold Photo Gallery

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