Keep the humidity level in the home between 30 and 40 percent by using the air conditioner or dehumidifiers.
Change or clean air conditioner and furnace filters often.
Kitchen and bathrooms need to be ventilated properly and all water leaks should be repaired.
A bleach solution that consists of one cup of bleach in one gallon of water for general cleaning of bathrooms and floors.
Clean garbage pails, refrigerator drip trays and door seals often.
Repair all plumbing leaks as needed and remove any damaged sheetrock.
Clean the bathtub, sink, toilet, walls, and shower curtain frequently.
Potted plants in the home can be a source for mold growth.
Avoid excessive accumulation of paper products.
Remember that mold growth needs moisture. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they can begin growing at a rapid rate.
There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
How Can I Tell if I Have Mold in My Home?
Some mold problems are obvious - you will see it growing. Others are not so obvious. If you can see mold, or if there is a musty odor in your home, you probably have a mold problem. Areas that are wet, or have been wet due to flooding, leaky plumbing, leaky roofing, or areas that are humid (such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms) are most likely to have mold growth. Look for previous water damage. Visible mold growth may be found underneath wallpaper and baseboards, behind walls, or may be evident by discolored plaster or drywall.
If you don't have any observable mold, but are experiencing symptoms likely to be mold-induced, the mold could be growing in areas you can't see, such as the ducts of a heating/cooling system. In this case, the only way to know if you have mold spores is to test. Many home inspectors or Industrial Hygienists can conduct air sampling to detect the presence of these spores in your home. If there is obvious mold, we can conduct a swab test that will be analyzed to determine the molds that are present. Once again, the only way to know if you have a mold problem and what type is to test. Take a copy of the laboratory report along with you when you visit your doctor or allergist. This will aid in determining a method of treatment if necessary.
Remember this about molds. You may have a problem if:
there is a musty, moldy smell
there are visible signs of mold
there is water damage
How Do Molds Affect People?
Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation or wheezing. Some people, such as those with serious allergies to molds may have more severe reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. People with chronic illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs. The severity of those affected depends on the amount of exposure and the individual's particular health condition, age or vulnerability.
How Can You be Exposed to Mold?
When moldy material becomes damaged or disturbed, spores (reproductive bodies similar to seeds) can be released into the air. Exposure can occur if people inhale the spores, directly handle moldy materials, or accidentally ingest the spores. Mold can sometimes produce chemicals called Mycotoxins that may cause illness in people who are sensitive to them or if they are exposed to large amounts in the air.
How Does Mold Grow?
All molds need moisture to grow. Mold can grow almost anywhere there is water damage, high humidity or dampness. Most often, molds are confined to areas near a source of water. Removing the source of moisture - such as through repairs or dehumidification - is critical to preventing mold growth.
What is Stachybotrys chartarum?
Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra) is a type of mold that has been associated with health effects in people. It is a greenish-black mold that can grow on materials with a high cellulose content - such as drywall sheetrock, dropped ceiling tiles, and wood - that become chronically moist or water-damaged due to excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, or flooding.
If you'd like more information about mold, call us at 904 268-9989, contact us by e-mail or use our online form to ask a question.
Learn more about home inspection, select appropriate subject below:
Keep the humidity level in the home between 30 and 40 percent by using the air conditioner or dehumidifiers.
Some mold problems are obvious - you will see it growing. Others are not so obvious. If you can see mold, or if there is a musty odor in your home, you probably have a mold problem. Areas that are wet, or have been wet due to flooding, leaky plumbing, leaky roofing, or areas that are humid (such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms) are most likely to have mold growth. Look for previous water damage. Visible mold growth may be found underneath wallpaper and baseboards, behind walls, or may be evident by discolored plaster or drywall. 
Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation or wheezing. Some people, such as those with serious allergies to molds may have more severe reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. People with chronic illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs. The severity of those affected depends on the amount of exposure and the individual's particular health condition, age or vulnerability. 
All molds need moisture to grow. Mold can grow almost anywhere there is water damage, high humidity or dampness. Most often, molds are confined to areas near a source of water. Removing the source of moisture - such as through repairs or dehumidification - is critical to preventing mold growth. 
Quick Time 
Windows Media 
Real Player 
