Mold Frequently Asked Questions

Molds belong to the fungi family, along with mildews, yeasts and mushrooms. They can be found in the indoors, as well as the outdoors. Molds contain filaments known as hyphae and produce microscopic substances known as spores that are abundantly found in the air that we breathe. They can be found on hard and soft surfaces and can even survive at varying temperatures, depending on the species. There are more than thousands of mold species that thrive in moist and humid environments.

Molds feed on organic and inorganic substances, by decomposing the former and obtaining food from compost, dead leaves, animals and plants. They can also draw food from building materials, paper, textiles, synthetic products, wallpaper glue, paints and wood. They require water to reproduce spores that inhabit the air in the form of dust particles and settle on moist surfaces. Once they land on a surface having favourable conditions such as temperature, availability of food, nutrients and oxygen, they steadily grow in size. Room temperatures will allow molds to grow at a faster rate, and they may even grow in temperatures less than 2 degrees Celsius, depending on the species. Molds can be terminated above temperatures of 100 F.

Molds can be found indoors, outdoors, on buildings and are largely air and wind borne. They can grow on a wide range of surfaces including, ceiling tiles, carpets, mattresses, windows, greases, organic matter, decaying or stale food and mainly on porous surfaces. Bathrooms, kitchens and basements are susceptible to mildew due to continued exposure to water and moisture. If rooms are not properly ventilated, or vacuumed, they begin to emit a musty odour which is an indication of mold formation. Areas previously flooded, or roofs that are leaky may also have molds growing over them. Since spores are present all around us, they can easily migrate indoors by settling on doors, windows, people or animals.

A few common molds are Acremonium, Alternaria, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Mucor, Cladosporium, Fusarium and Stachybotrys. Molds serve as decomposers and help in the process of biodegradation. They break down organic matter found in nature, and help in replenishing nutrients back to the soil. Molds are also used in the production of food and medicines, such as penicillin.

Mold exposure causes different reactions among different individuals. Some people may not be affected at all in small amounts, while people prone to allergies and asthma may find even a few spores as deterrents to their health. The symptoms of mold exposure in some people may include allergies, watery or itchy eyes, coughing, migraines, fatigue, rashes, wheezing, respiratory and lung issues. Molds also produce toxins called mycotoxins which can be harmful for both humans and animals alike. Exposure to molds can be in the form of touching moldy surfaces with bare hands, absorption through the skin and eating moldy food, among others. It is difficult to scientifically determine safe levels of mold exposure, as it varies from person to person.

Molds can be tested if a sample is taken and studied under a microscope. Large areas of mold found growing can be hazardous, and it is best to get them removed at the earliest. Tests can help you identity the graveness of the situation and give you accurate results. The best way to identify molds is to notice discoloration, in addition to the surface being fuzzy in appearance. If the room smells moist, damp and musty, it is a sure indication of mold formation somewhere in the building. Some people make use of air sampling, which helps you locate the mold infested area easily. Air testing or sampling of mold is highly recommended by experts in the field.

The key to decrease mold exposure is to keep your home dry and clean, with plenty of ventilation. Make sure the humidity levels are between 40%-60%, and also fix any recurring plumbing problems. A leaky tap or roof may prove to be the home turf for molds, including damp areas such as the kitchen sink or the bathroom floor.

Molds can be cleaned using a bar of soap and a brush, or you may even occasionally resort to using a cup of bleach to remedy your walls. While using bleach, do not mix other household cleaners as it can emit toxic fumes. Also, wear gloves and protective eye gear, as well as open the doors and windows for enough air circulation. Bleach does not kill the mold but only decolorizes it. Similarly, painting over molds will only cause them to grow under it, resulting in the paint peeling off. Sometimes, it is best to call in the experts and have them handle the situation if you are allergic to molds, or do not wish to do it yourself. This may save you a lot of time and effort, and is a whole lot safer.

Certain protective measures may be followed such as, repairing water leaks; aerating walls and rooms to prevent dampness; using exhaust fans in the bathroom, kitchen and basement; keep clothing, bedspreads and mattresses dry and clean; and last but not the least, vacuuming your home regularly to avoid unwanted spores from concentrating on moist surfaces.

Molds can be got rid off by using water, soap and a brush to scrub it off. If molds grow on disposable items like boxes or unwanted materials, it is best to dispose them properly in a landfill near you. The objects can be wrapped in plastic, to protect the mold from spreading to other surfaces and people. If the moldy surface is over 10 square feet in area, it is advisable to call experts in the field to get rid of it for you. Keeping off molds from occupying your territory is an ongoing process, and to ensure that the problem does not recur, it is essential to rectify your water problems, along with adequate air filtration systems to do the needful.