The air that you breathe may appear clean and pure, but it may contain mold spore that are traveling to reproduce in various parts of your home. If this is the case, it’s time to call in a professional, says Dave Park, owner of Advantage Inspection in Raleigh, North Carolina.
How many of you know that a common component of dust in both the household and the workplace is mold? Mold is not only unsightly; it can be downright dangerous. When mold spores are present in large quantities, they can be a health hazard to humans, as there is a potential for them to cause a variety of allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
Molds and fungi are found virtually everywhere. They are present both inside and outside, and when there is a bit of moisture, they can grow on almost any substance. The majority of molds reproduce by making tiny sometimes microscopic spores, which can be carried long distances by air currents. Where these spores land is anyone’s guess. But if they land in a place they like that is conducive to reproduction, they can start to grow.
Vulnerable Most Affected
When mold is found inside a home, it is usually at a level at which most healthy people would not be affected. But people who have asthma or other breathing problems can experience more difficulties because of mold, as well as the elderly and people with a compromised autoimmune system.
Mold spores ever everywhere as far as building materials are concerned, especially if the environment is humid or moist. If concrete does not dry properly, for example, it can attract mold. Other places where mold will grow are areas where there have been flooding, plumbing issues, building maintenance problems or leaky roofs.
In order for mold to really grow, it must have an adequate water and food source and habitat. Water can be as simple as humidity in the air. It doesn’t have to be visible to the human eye. And a habitat can be anything from a carpet to drywall to plywood, as any of these building materials can provide nourishment for mold to thrive. Even when mold has been dormant for long, it can blossom when presented with the right conditions.
As home inspectors, we often find mold growing only during certain seasons, either in areas that are too drafty or do not have enough circulation. Mold will flourish in drafty areas in the warmer months and humidifiers used during winter can contribute to mold growth.
Assessment
The first step to take during a home inspection to determine if mold is present by examining the home or commercial building visually. This helps decide what level of remediation is necessary. If mold is confirmed, species sampling is mandatory.
Sometimes more intrusive methods will be called in apart from just looking. Our home inspectors will move furniture, check behind wallpaper, lift and/or remove carpets, check vents, behind walls and more. Seeing and checking for odors are vital, especially in areas that are humid or moist.
Remediation
Solving an indoor mold problem will, first and foremost, include making all efforts to find the moisture source, and then fixing it and getting rid of the mold. Ways to do that are numerous, but the most common ones are:
- Exposing the area to sunlight
- Providing proper ventilation
- Using nonporous building materials
- Using household cleansers
In some cases, however, these remedies will not work, and affected building materials will have to be taken out and the area will need to be cleaned by a professional. It goes without saying that different states have different laws concerning licensing, certifying and qualifying mold remediation technicians.
There are Certified Mold Inspectors, Certified Mold Remediators, and Certified Environmental Hygienists, all professionals who provide services relating to mold problems. While some mild instances of mold may be able to be addressed in a do-it-yourself way, a professional should be engaged for this purpose. The preparation of the area for the removal of the material, the disposal of the material removed, and the personal precautions that are required generally exceed those of a maintenance worker or handyman. If in doubt, call a professional for an air quality home inspection test, and to do what is needed, if anything, afterwards.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
