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Key Mold Facts:
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Those unsightly, fuzzy patches growing in damp corners of a property or basement? Those are likely mold colonies, and they're more than just an eyesore.
Mold is a pervasive organism that can have serious health consequences and cause significant property damage. From the potential to cause respiratory problems and allergies to structural damage, mold can threaten a person’s well-being and property value.
These facts about mold can help property owners identify early signs of mold growth, understand mold’s potential health risks, and know when to call for professional mold removal and remediation.
Table of contents:
- Facts About Types of Mold
- Facts About Mold Growth
- Facts About Mold Health Risks
- Facts About Mold Remediation and Prevention
- Trust Rainbow Restoration for Mold Removal
- Mold Facts FAQ
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Methodology: This article compiles data from several mold sources, including the Environmental Protection Agency, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Data was collected from these sources to provide accurate and up-to-date information on mold facts, health risks, and prevention methods. Additionally, relevant statistics were gathered to illustrate the prevalence and impact of mold in residential and commercial settings. |
Facts About Types of Mold
There are many varieties of mold characteristics, including different shapes, colors, and textures. Some types of mold are toxic to humans and animals, while others are considered harmless.
- There are approximately 1.5 million types of mold. (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences)
- Only five specific types of mold are toxic to humans: Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys. (Cornell Law School)
- The most common types of mold are Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium. (CDC)
- Typically, Cladosporium is the most common type of mold found indoors. (CDC)
Facts About Mold Growth
Mold is airborne but requires moisture to thrive. This makes categories of water damage an easy breeding ground for mold growth. Mold is often easily identified by its signature musty smell, appearing where there’s a water leak or water damage on a property within 24 to 48 hours.
- Are mold spores everywhere? Yes! Mold spores are microscopic and can be found in the air indoors and outdoors. (Environmental Protection Agency)
- Mold spores generally get inside a property from outdoor sources, such as soil, plants, or other decaying materials. (American Industrial Hygiene Association)
- It’s estimated that approximately 47% of American homes have mold. (Berkeley Lab)
- Mold thrives in damp environments and requires a moisture source to grow. (Environmental Protection Agency)
- Mold can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, carpet, and fabric. (Environmental Protection Agency)
Facts About Mold Health Risks
If a property has early signs of mold growth, it’s important to understand how mold can impact overall health. Mold can pose a potentially serious health risk for infants, children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. Mold symptoms often include allergies, respiratory illnesses, and other health-related issues.
- Exposure to mold can cause various health problems, including allergies, asthma, and lung infections. (CDC)
- Mold is one of the top contributors to poor indoor air quality. (Environmental Protection Agency)
- Black mold is most often associated with adverse health effects, though it’s actually only one type of black mold — Stachybotrys chartarum — that is “inconclusively associated” with severe health concerns. (American Industrial Hygiene Association)
- Experts note that more studies need to be done to determine the actual long-term effects of black mold and other mold exposure. Currently, the only confirmed side effect is increased respiratory issues, such as congestion. (WebMD)
- Additional symptoms of mold exposure include cough, eye irritation, headache, skin irritation, throat irritation, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing. (New York State Department of Health)
Facts About Mold Remediation and Prevention
The most important facet of mold remediation and prevention is reducing moisture. Without moisture, mold cannot grow. Cleaning up any excess moisture is essential, especially after a leak or storm.
It’s also important to address signs of mold right away to prevent it from spreading. Trained service professionals, like those at Rainbow Restoration®, should handle mold removal and remediation.
- Because mold is airborne, it cannot be removed entirely. Rather, it needs to be controlled by removing excess moisture. (Environmental Protection Agency)
- Indoor moisture levels should be no higher than 50% relative humidity to prevent mold growth. (CDC)
- Moisture is often the earliest sign of mold growth. Any leaks, floods, or other moisture sources should be cleaned up within 24 to 48 hours to help prevent mold growth. (Environmental Protection Agency)
- Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help with mold, removing approximately 99.97% of airborne mold spores, as long as the moisture issue is addressed. (Health.com)
- Any absorbent materials, such as carpeting or insulation, will likely need to be replaced to ensure the mold is removed and doesn’t spread. (Environmental Protection Agency)
Call the experts at Rainbow Restoration for mold remediation and removal today.
Trust Rainbow Restoration for Mold Removal
While knowing these mold facts won’t prevent future mold issues, it can help with preparedness. Mold's ability to thrive in damp environments and its potential to cause health problems and property damage make it a serious concern. Property owners can effectively combat mold by recognizing the signs and hiring professional mold remediation swiftly.
Rainbow Restoration offers mold removal and remediation services for both residential and commercial properties.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property. Services should be performed by licensed and experienced professionals. Rainbow Restoration is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact a Rainbow Restoration professional for a custom, on-site assessment.
Some Rainbow Restoration services vary by location. Contact your local Rainbow Restoration franchise for more information.
Mold Facts FAQ
Setting the highest standards in water, fire, and mold damage restoration requires a continuous focus and dedication to education and improvement. This commitment to exceptional service also includes using our years of experience and expertise to answer restoration questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about mold facts.
How long does mold live?
Mold spores can remain dormant for hundreds of years, waiting for the right conditions to grow. When these conditions are present, mold can grow and spread rapidly, causing health problems and structural damage.
How bad is mold damage?
Mold damage can be quite serious, as it is both hazardous and costly. Mold exposure can trigger some individuals' allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and even serious health conditions. It can also cause structural damage to buildings, leading to expensive repairs.
Is mold dead once it is dry?
No, mold is not dead once it dries. Drying out the area can prevent mold, but it does not entirely get rid of mold if it’s already present. It enters a dormant state and can become active again when moisture is reintroduced. Simply drying a moldy area is not enough to eliminate the problem.
Does bleach kill mold?
When it comes to mold, it is never advised to attempt DIY removal. Bleach will not kill mold. To get rid of mold on porous materials, the material has to be safely removed and disposed of. Semi-porous and non-porous material might be able to be remediated It’s always best to contact a mold remediation company for professional treatment. Trained experts will handle the mold with appropriate techniques and equipment.
