I’ve heard a lot about mold in the media lately. I’ve also heard that it can be toxic and that some people have become ill due to exposure to mold in certain areas. Just what is mold, and is it really a health concern?
Molds are forms of fungus (mildew, yeast and mushrooms are some of the types of fungus) that grow indoors and outdoors. People are exposed to mold spores (i.e. airborne “seeds”) daily in the air that they breathe. However, sometimes molds can grow excessively in certain areas called “amplification sites,” and can cause different types of illnesses.
Some molds are more hazardous than others, and different people have different responses to mold exposure.
Those with allergies, existing respiratory conditions or suppressed immune systems are especially susceptible to health problems from mold exposure. Additionally, infants and children, pregnant women, and the elderly can be sensitive to the effects of mold exposure. Some people that have been exposed to mold experience symptoms that can last longer than their usual time periods, such as allergic reactions with symptoms similar to hay fever and the common cold, while others can experience aggravation to asthma.
Researchers have identified that some fungi in indoor environments can induce allergic and irritant responses, infectious diseases, respiratory problems, hypersensitivity reactions, and organ toxicity. In addition, some molds produce chemicals called mycotoxins, which can cause flu-like symptoms.
It should be noted that the causes and effects of mold exposure on people are not very well understood. In some cases, health problems that are attributable to mold are temporary and can be controlled by limiting exposure to molds.
What factors affect mold growth?
Several factors affect mold growth, including:
- Nutrient Availability – Nutrients absorb moisture to maintain a favourable environment for mold growth. They can be found on many surfaces, including soil, dirt, wood, cellulose (paper, ceiling tile, jute carpet backing, cork, pipe, wrap), and some forms of insulation, such as fabric, oil, etc.
- Moisture Content – The amount of moisture in a material influences how an organism can support growth. Moisture sources include condensation in humid rooms, on windows, walls, unheated closets, dampness under carpets, shower curtains, and periodic wet sections in duct-work of air-conditioned ventilation.
- Temperature – Temperature is also a factor that affects mold growth. Molds typically require temperatures between 5ºC and 38ºC to grow.
What is an amplification site?
As mentioned above, buildings are not often sterile, which means the presence of mold spores is very common in most buildings. It is interesting to note that the mere presence of mold spores in a building is not a concern. The concern arises when mold areas have grown in a building. When areas in a building have suitable nutrient and moisture content that fosters mold growth, the area is called an amplification site.
Can mold be easily identified in homes by a visual inspection?
Mold cannot be easily identified in homes by a visual inspection. Past studies have indicated that up to 90% of mold growth is not visible on the surface. Certain school boards have found a very poor correlation between the results of visual (surface) inspections and subsequent invasive inspections in portables located within Ontario. Certain guidelines state that an invasive inspection is necessary to make a complete assessment of the extent of mold contamination in a building.
Helpful Tips
Moisture is one of the key factors that affect mold growth. There is very little time after a flood to prevent the development of an amplification site. Buildings are not sterile and pre-existing mold spores will begin to develop rapidly with the proper nutrient, moisture, and temperature combinations. It is considered good practice to remove water very quickly (within 24 to 48 hours) after flooding. Also, surface moisture should be reduced to below 70% relative humidity as soon as possible to reduce the potential for mold growth.
Visit the home inspection experts at AmeriSpec of Canada for more tips and valuable home improvement information.
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