The Key to Mold Control is Moisture Control During Remodeling Projects.
Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part
in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves
and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds
reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the
naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air.
There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).
Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold.
Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, then, most likely, the mold problem will come back. By fixing water leaks, you not only control mold -- but can reduce your water usage and water bill -- as well as future mold removal costs.
Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home by EPA's Office of Air and Radiation Indoor Environments Division.
There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).
Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold.
Indoor mold growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, then, most likely, the mold problem will come back. By fixing water leaks, you not only control mold -- but can reduce your water usage and water bill -- as well as future mold removal costs.
Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home by EPA's Office of Air and Radiation Indoor Environments Division.
