Mold receives a lot of attention due to the vast amounts of sickness and lawsuits it creates. But mold problems didn’t just begin today. Mold has been documented as the cause of the Ergot Epidemic that affected Europe for 500 years due to mold induced food poisoning and the Irish Potato Famine where mold killed plants that provided food. Mold is documented in print as far back as the Bible, in Leviticus chapter 14: 33-47.
Since the 1970’s, when there was a shortage of oil, home construction has changed dramatically. It is now common practice to heavily insulate homes, wrap the exterior with a vapor barrier, and create less ventilation from the outside air. This can cause the potential for mold growth if there is a water event. According to statistics from the Bureau of the Census, 35% of homes are damaged due to water of moisture yearly. With the wood, cellulose, and other organic materials used in buildings, this now provides a fertile platform for mold.
Mold is simply a fungus. Like another fungus, the mushroom, there are good molds and bad molds. Some molds are used in making antibiotics, beer, and cheese, while other types can be toxic and cause negative health effects. But, the main purpose of mold is to break down dead materials, like wood and fiber that are used in building materials. Mold growth can start as soon as 24 hours after a water event has occurred. Because of dirt, all crawlspaces are literally mold factories. Mold can often be seen in the form of a discoloration or a stain. When molds are present in large quantities, called colonies,, they become a health concern. Molds are divided into 3 basic groups based on health effects: Allergenic, Pathogenic, and Toxic. Allergenic molds can cause allergic symptoms such as wheezing or runny nose. Pathogenic molds can cause suppressed immune systems, or serious health effects in a person who already has a decreased immune system. Toxic molds can cause serious health effects in almost everyone. These effects may be short-term irritations to even cancer.
If you suspect that the air quality in your home is being compromised by mold spores you can have the air tested. Call us for a FREE estimate today – 888-978-7324!