In my some of my past articles, I have discussed the function of mold in the outdoors.  Molds are tiny fungi that are quite useful in the breaking down and decomposing process.  Plant debris, dead wood, are broken down much more efficiently when mold growth occurs.  Mold growth outdoors does not pose nearly as much of a threat as mold growing in your living spaces or home.  Over thousands of years, molds have habituated themselves to using man-made hosts such as wallpaper, insulation, ceiling tiles, carpets, gypsum board paper as well as wood products.  In a dry home, mold does not do well, however just add water and you quickly raise the risk of mold germination and or mold growth.  Some species of mold have been known to reproduce and spread in as little as twelve hours!  This alarming rate of reproduction reiterates how crucial preventive measures are when considering the safety and welfare of your home.

Another important fact is that mold spores can lay dormant for years, depending on what sources you consult with, information on dormancy rates ranges from anywhere from one hundred to one thousand years.  This compounds the importance of maintaining a clean, dry and safe air quality for you and your family.  My company uses a combination of moisture detectors, thermal imaging, and temperature guns to determine rates and locations of water and moisture.  Thermal imaging camera is not cheap, but you do not need one to know if you are at risk for mold exposure.  There is no substitute for having an air-test and or mold test taken by an expert and having these results interpreted by an accredited laboratory.  There is, however, some telltale signs that everyone can look for if you suspect needing the aforementioned.

How to Prevent Mold in House

1. Look- if you see discoloration on any of the surfaces of your home that either changes or increases, take heed.

2. Feel- wearing GLOVES AND PROTECTIVE BREATHING MASK, feel for temperature differentiation.  Cool temps. usually, mean higher moisture.

3. Smell- Odd odors are my biggest help when detecting mold.  One of the by-products of mold reproduction is off-gassing and odor.