MOLD FACTS

“Mold" is the ordinary term used to describe microscopic filamentous fungi. Mold is the microscopic version of the mushroom. Like mushrooms. most molds consist of a fruiting body, a root system. and very small seeds known as spores. The filaments called mycelium., are the root system that microfungi send into whatever material they are growing on so they can soften and digest the material.

Mold is everywhere around us in the exterior and sometimes in the interior. Mold is in a special classification — neither animal nor what is usually considered a plant. It grows naturally outdoors. The spores, the reproductive portion or “seed” are present in the air. When mold moves indoors it has the ability grows exponentially in environments that contain an excessive amount of moisture.!

Homeowners unintentionally create good conditions for the growth of mold though moisture collected from a leaky roof. broken pipe, clogged drainage system or lack of waterproofing materials in a shower stall. Anyone of these things can initiate the process of mold growth. Mold is only a symptom...the problem is moisture or water.

In addition to the presence of moisture mold needs a nutrient source to develop and spread. The necessary nutrients are present in most homes and commercial structures. Nutrients include wallpaper. cardboard. ceiling tiles. wood. wood products. newspapers. carpeting. or any product containing cellulose.

Many molds are harmless and actually, some are beneficial and even tasty like mushrooms and the fungi that convert milk to cheese. Certain molds, referred to as toxics, produce a chemical called mycotoxins which in turn are toxic and harmful to human health. Mycotoxins can be absorbed into the human body through the intestinal lining. airway paths. and skin. Human exposure to mold can be very dangerous.

Mycologists have estimated that there are hundreds of thousands of species of mold., each having its own preference for moisture. temperature. and food source. Mold can be found on live plants dead plants, animal matter, and in soil. Spores are easily blown about by the wind and are almost always found in outdoor air.