Any type of mold in the home is a concern and may be linked to certain physical symptoms and/or chronic illness. Mold growth generally requires specific conditions to remain active and spread contamination.
Homeowners often ask a very good question: If we simply eliminate these conditions, won't existing mold in the home just die and go away by itself?
Lets Start With What Mold Needs To Grow
As a leading mold remediation contractor, Rytech Restoration has been helping property owners identify the source of their mold problems for decades. During that time, our certified mold inspectors have found that mold grows most often in attics, crawl spaces, and basements.
Mold is a fungus that prefers a particular temperature range, a dark environment, a little bit of microscopic food (usually cellulose of some sort) and moisture. Of these ingredients, moisture is generally considered to be the definitive trigger that promotes active fungal growth. No moisture—no mold.
Dormant vs. Active Growth
Visual evidence of existing mold growth doesn't tell you everything you need to know, however. Moisture-deprived mold may indeed appear dried-up and lifeless. In a sense, it is: without moisture to keep it active, the mold fungus mass stops growing and becomes inert.
However, while the fungal mass is dead, microscopic spores that trigger regrowth and contamination aren't. In dry conditions, spores go dormant until exposure to moisture recurs.
Once that happens, spores rapidly activate and begin spawning mold growth again, including airborne reproductive spores that spread contamination and may cause physical reactions in susceptible persons.
What To Do About Dried-Up Mold
Get A Professional To Inspect & Test Your Mold Problem
Not everything that looks like mold is mold. Sampling and testing by a qualified mold remediation specialist is required to confirm the presence of dormant or active mold as well as determine the type. Air samples are also taken to identify airborne spores and estimate the extent of active contamination.
Professional Mold Experts Removing Your Problem
Proven mold remediation techniques utilized by professionals include physically removing active or dormant growth, then sterilizing affected surfaces with EPA-approved fungicides. In cases where mold has penetrated certain building materials, these materials may be cut out and replaced to totally eliminate growth.
Preventing Future Mold Growth
Reducing moisture is also vital to prevent recurrence of mold in the home. Plumbing leaks, roof leaks and other moisture sources must be resolved. If chronically high indoor humidity is an issue, installation of a whole-house dehumidifier is also recommended.
Don't Guess About Mold Issues, Call The Experts!
Mold can be a serious problem in homes and businesses, leading to health issues and structural damage. According to a survey conducted by the American College of Allergists (ACAAI), over half of the people surveyed reported health issues related to mold.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the U.S. spends over $3 billion each year to repair water damage from mold. To protect the health and safety of your family or employees, and to prevent costly repairs, it is important to inspect and test for mold as soon as it is suspected or discovered.
A certified mold inspection company can provide a thorough assesment, allowing you to identify and address any mold issues before they become more serious. Scheduling a certified mold inspection is the only way to ensure the safety of your family, employees, and property.
Rytech Restoration network of mold remediation specialists have industry leading training and equipment to identify the mold growing at your property and experience to help you remove it at the source. Don't wait - schedule a certified mold inspection today!
