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Frequently Asked Questions
What is mold?
Molds are a type of fungus and are found virtually everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. For mold to grow it needs a food source, such as leaves, wood, or paper, a source of moisture, and a warm environment. Molds release tiny, reproductive spores that travel through the air and can be inhaled by humans.
How does mold contribute to poor indoor air quality?
People are exposed to mold all the time, and under normal conditions mold exposure is not a problem. However, certain environmental conditions within buildings, such as excess moisture, can cause mold to amplify indoors, leading to high levels of airborne spores. Inhalation of spores in greater numbers than the body is normally used to can cause lead to health problems in sensitive individuals.
What are the symptoms of excessive mold exposure?
The typical reaction to elevated levels of mold spores is an allergic reaction. This is similar to the seasonal allergies many people develop in the fall when outdoor mold levels are often high. The typical symptoms are sneezing, nasal and sinus congestion, irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, and coughing. In sensitive individuals, more serious problems may develop such as:
- shortness of breath
- frequent headaches
- trouble concentrating
- mood changes
- nausea and dizziness
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- stress
- fatigue
- asthma
- skin irritation
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How can I tell if I am sensitive to molds?
Individuals with pre-existing allergies or respiratory conditions, are likely to be more sensitive to mold spores. Other individuals that may be sensitive include infants and young children, the elderly, and immune comprised patients (people with HIV, undergoing, chemotherapy, liver disease, etc.) Most people are exposed to mold daily with little or no reaction. Prolonged exposure, though, over a long period of time can make a person sensitive to molds when they previously did not have a reaction.
Are mold related health problems permanent?
In most cases, mold related health problems go away after the mold is removed or after
the occupants leave the impacted building. It is believed, though, that the affected
individuals may have a greater sensitivity to molds in the future so that later it will
take exposure to lower levels of mold spores for a shorter duration of time to develop
the same problems.
What causes excessive mold growth?
Mold requires a moist environment to grow. Any excess moisture in a home or office can lead to amplified mold growth. This moisture can come from water damage from flooding or leaking roofs and pipes. However, the moisture may not be from an obvious source. Improperly constructed building foundations can cause excess water vapor to seep through the floors of buildings. This can cause mold growth in carpets and in wall spaces where ventilation is poor.
How do I know if I have a mold problem?
Visible mold and/or a musty odor are two signs of a mold problem. Not all mold, though, is visible. Mold can grow in wall spaces, attics, cupboards, beneath carpet and under appliances. Hidden mold growth can release dangerous spores to the air. Any building that has suffered water damage or is unusually humid should be inspected for excessive mold growth by an experienced environmental consultant.
How is a building tested for mold?
Testing of a building for mold typically involves both air and surface sampling. Surface sampling involves collecting a sample of material suspected of harboring mold with a sterile swab or tape. This sample is then viewed under a microscope to determine if the sample contains mold, and if so, what type of mold. Air sampling involves collecting a known volume of air and determining the number and types of mold spores present. Indoor levels are then compared to outdoor levels to determine if mold amplification is occurring within a building. Mold levels indoors should generally be 30-70% those of outdoor levels. If they are higher, then there is a mold problem.
What is the cost of a typical mold inspection?
The cost of sampling will vary depending on many factors, such as the number and types of samples collected, the method of laboratory analysis to be used, the type of report needed, and the location of the site. Typical mold inspections, though, average between $800-$1200.
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