What is Mold?
Mold (fungi) is present everywhere – indoors and
outdoors. There are more than 100,000 species of
mold.
Mold frequently grows in hidden places – behind
wall linings, in floors or behind installations –
and is often not visible from the outside. When
moisture builds up from leaky pipes or roofs, high
humidity, or flooding, conditions are ideal for mold
growth. Molds are easily disturbed and their spores
can become airborne, getting into noses, mouths and
lungs.
Additional Information on mold
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) National Center for Environmental Health
California Department of Health Services
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A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home
From the U.S. EPA Website - As Posted on 1/23/02
- Moisture control is the key to mold control,
so when water leaks or spills occur indoors - ACT
QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are
dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens,
in most cases mold will not grow.
- Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
- Make sure the ground slopes away from the
building foundation, so that water does not enter
or collect around the foundation.
- Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the
drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
- Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep
indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between
30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative
humidity can be measured with a moisture or
humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10-$50)
instrument available at many hardware stores.
- If you see condensation or moisture collecting
on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the
wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source.
Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.
Actions that will help to reduce
humidity
- Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as
clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters to
the outside where possible. (Combustion appliances
such as stoves and kerosene heaters produce water
vapor and will increase the humidity unless vented
to the outside.)
- Use air conditioners and/or de-humidifiers
when needed. · Run the bathroom fan or open the
window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open
windows whenever cooking, running the dishwasher
or dishwashing, etc.
Actions that will help prevent condensation
- Reduce the humidity (see above).
- Increase ventilation or air movement by
opening doors and/or windows, when practical. Use
fans as needed.
- Cover cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes,
with insulation. · Increase air temperature. Back
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