Molds are microscopic organisms found both indoors and outdoors. Molds are known scientifically as fungi. Their purpose is to break down dead material and recycle nutrients in the environment. For molds to grow and reproduce, they need an organic food source (leaves, paper, wood, dirt, etc.) and water. Since molds grow by "consuming" organic material, they eventually destroy whatever it is they are feeding on.

Mold growth can usually be seen as a colored spot; green, gray, brown, black or white. It can appear as a powdery, fuzzy or hair-like material. Molds growing actively can produce a odor. They can be described as earthy, mildew like, smelling like old dirty socks or ammonia.

Molds release thosuands od spores which are easily airborne and can be carried by air currents to surrounding areas. Just like plant seeds though, the spores will need both food and moisture to start growing.

Damage To Your Home

Mold spores can be found in the air inside homes and on most surfaces (clothing, walls, furniture, etc.). More often than not, the mold spores found indoors come from an outdoor source. Cleaning your home and furnishings will help keep these levels low. Cleaning those areas with visible mold (like the mold that can occur around your shower) is necessary to prevent unsanitary conditions.

The level of concern increases when there are large amounts of active mold growth in your home. Large scale problems ae most likely to happen when there has been an on-going water leak, a flood , or high levels of humidity in the home. Unchecked mold growth can, in time, cause damage to the structural elemets in your home. Unfortunately, there is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. In order to prevent mold growth, you should keep your home clean and dry.

Health Effects

Mold growth in the home is an unsanitary condition that may present potential health risks to its occupants. Potential health effects can include allergic, irritating, or toxigenic effects. Allergic reactions are the most common health effect.

Some symptoms reported by people living in homes with mold include:

• Respiratory problems (wheezing/shortness of breath)
• Sneezing/Nasal congestion
• Eye irritation (burning, itching, reddened eyes)
• Coughing or irritation of the throat
• Skin rashes
• Headaches
• Fatigue

The potential health effects depend on the amounts and types of mold present, the length and frequency of exposure, and the health conditions of the exposed individual. While most people rarely experience any ill effects from exposure to mold, some can develop very serious illnesses.

It is important for a homeowner to take precautions to prevent moisture from creating a breeding ground for molds.

Moisture Control

You should maintain levels of humidity below 60% by:

• venting your bathrooms and dryers to the outside
• avoid blockage of air conditioning vents
• use air conditioners and humidifiers
• use exhaust fans when cooukin, washing dishes, and cleaning
• set the air conditioning thermostat to "auto" to prevent circulation of humid air

You can add insulation to reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces. You should also consider using moisture sensors that sound an alarm should a leak occur.

Other Precautions

Water Valve - Everyone in the household should know where the main valve is located and how to turn the water off.

Rain Gutters/Downspouts - Keep gutters clear of debris and ensure the downspouts are long enough to carry water away from the foundation of the home.

Insulate Pipes/Outside Faucets - You can minimize the potential for water damage by insulating the supply lines, protecting any exposed outdoor faucets, sealing any gaps in the exterior walls and maintaining adaquate heat in your home.

Sump Pump - Check the sump and remove any debris that could clog it. You can also consider installing a battery-powered backup to protect your basement during any power outages.

Utility Bills - You should always monitor your utility bill. An abnormally high bill could signal a water leak.

You should inspect your home regularly for any indications/sources of indoor moisture. You should set up a maintenance schedule to check the following sources for water leaks:

• Hot Water Heater - Check for rust and deterioration. Check the drain pan for water. Drain and clean the water heater as recommended by the manufacturer.
• A/C Drain Lines - Check the drip pan for water. You should have an annual inspection/service call to reduce buildup of algea and mold in the drain line.
• Appliance Hoses - Inspect hoses and hose fittings washing machines, dishwashers, etc. for cracks or signs of deterioration.
• Showers/Tubs/Sinks/Toilets - To prevent leaks, have a continuous, watertight seal of caulk around the edges of sinks, tubs, toilets and shower stalls. Any cracks or mold you may find on the caulk or on the grout might indicate that you do not have a watertight seal.
• Visible Piping - Check the piping under cabinets and sinks for leaks, rust or signs of deterioration.
• Attic/Ceilings - Check for wet insulation and water stains.
• Wallpaper - Check for any bubbling/peeling or any pink or black stains.
• Roofs - Keep roofs free of any debris that can cause damage and allow water to seep in.