Mold
Mold is comprised of microscopic organisms that live on
plant or animal matter. They assist in
the breakdown of dead material and recycle nutrients in the environment. Molds reproduce themselves by producing
spores, which can spread by air, water, or insects. Spores act like seeds and can form the basis
for new mold growth if set in the proper conditions.
The right conditions mainly consist of sufficient moisture
and organic material such as drywall, ceiling tile, or fiber carpet
padding. In the home, mold usually
appears after events such as flooding, roof leakage, plumbing leaks or drainage
problems, or in perpetually damp, dark spaces such as basements or crawlspaces. You can usually spot moisture problems right
away as discolorations on drywall or the ceiling. Controlling the level of moisture in your
home is vital to preventing the growth of mold.
Mold in small amounts is generally harmless, such as mold on
bread or other food mold, but in cases of larger growths, or black mold, it can cause health
problems from the slight to the severe, as well as actual physical damage to
your home. It usually presents itself as
a musty odor or furry, discolored substance on walls that increases in size
over time. See picture of mold to the
right.
Cleaning mold may be done by the homeowner, but if the growth
is substantial, it is advisable to call in a professional in mold remediation. Especially when dealing with the more
sinister mold types, such as black mold.
Contact your local IICRC certified mold remediation
professional today. 
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