Mold in homes on Long Island is quite common, especially in basements where moisture levels are high. Mold is a type of fungus that is present in our natural environment. Mold spores, which are tiny microscopic ‘seeds’, can be found in just about any environment, including inside your homes, and are a part of the general dust found in homes. These spores sometimes grow on building materials and furnishings within the home if the correct moisture conditions are present. Excess moisture is generally the reason for mold problems in the home. Mold growth should not be tolerated in our homes, and moisture and mold will eventually damage what it attaches itself to, which may include both the building materials and personal belongings. The key to preventing mold growth is to prevent excess moisture from permeating the home.
What does mold need to grow?
Mold needs moisture and nutrients to grow.
Stopping this excess moisture is the most important part of preventing mold growth in the living spaces within your home.
What are the health concerns?
Health effects from exposure to mold can vary greatly depending on the person and the amount of mold in their home. Symptoms that may occur include throat problems, wheezing, coughing, or a nasal condition. People with asthma or allergies who are sensitive to mold may notice their asthma or allergy symptoms get worse. Individuals with severely weakened immune system who are exposed to moldy environments are at risk of developing serious fungal respiratory infections - people who suffer from HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy patients, the elderly, etc. MHI recommends that you consult a medical professional if you are concerned about the effects of mold within the living space of the home.
Are the risks greater for some people?
Different people are affected in different ways when it comes to exposure to mold spores. However, the long term presence of indoor mold growth may eventually become unhealthy for anyone. Infants,children and especially the elderly are more apt to suffer from problems caused by mold. Also, individuals with respiratory conditions or sensitivities such as allergies or asthma, people who have weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV infection, chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients) are more succeptible to mold related health issues. Those with special health concerns should consult a medical professional if they feel their health is affected by indoor mold.
Are some molds more hazardous than others?
Yes! Some types of mold can produce chemical compounds called mycotoxins although they do not always do so. In some circumstances, the toxins produced by indoor mold may cause health problems. Many, if not most, molds can produce potentially harmful substances, whether it’s allergens, mycotoxins, or other compounds. Hence, all indoor mold growth should be removed promptly, no matter what type(s) of mold is present or whether it can produce toxins. Toxic mold, such as Stachybotris, can land you in the hospital, or if you are real unlucky, in the graveyard.
How do I tell if I have a mold problem?
Investigate - don't test. The most practical way to find a mold problem is by using your eyes to look for mold growth and by using your nose to locate the source of a suspicious odor. If you see mold or if there is an earthy or musty smell, you should assume a mold problem exists. Other clues are signs of excess moisture or the worsening of allergy-like symptoms. Look for visible mold growth such as stains on sheetrock and wood panel boards which may appear cottony, velvety, granular, or leathery and have varied colors of white, gray, brown, black, yellow, green. Mold often appears as discoloration, staining, or fuzzy growth on the surface of building materials or furnishings. When mold is visible, testing is not recommended. Call Meticulous Home Inspection at 631-902-6761. We will search areas with noticeable mold odors. We will look for signs of water damage, water stains, and discolorations on wall, floor and ceiling surfaces. We will look for water leaks, standing water and signs of condensation problems.
Licensed mold remediation contractors will search behind and underneath materials such as carpet and padding, wallpaper, vinyl flooring, sink cabinets, furniture, or stored items (especially things placed near outside walls or on cold floors). Sometimes destructive techniques may be needed to inspect and clean enclosed spaces where mold and moisture are hidden. For example, opening up a wall cavity may be required to find the source of the mold growth. This is considered destructive testing, and is outside the scope of a standard home inspection. Destructive testing may be required for the remediation contractor that is called in to do the mold remediation.
Testing for mold.
Testing should never take the place of visual inspection and it should never use up resources that are needed to correct moisture problems and remove visible growth. Whenever signs of mold are seen at a home inspection, MHI recommends a licensed mold remediation contractor evaluate the area and perform the necessary remediation. Sellers of their homes and homeowners SHOULD NOT be the ones performing mold remediation. Not only does the mold-affected area or surface need to be removed, but the cause and source of the moisture needs to be determined so it can be halted. Only proper contractors with proper equipment and the correct procedures should be performing mold remediation.
