Ten Things You Should Know About Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.  
    
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
    
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
    
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
    
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-50% ) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.
    
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 8-16 hours to prevent mold growth.
    
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
    
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
    
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
    
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Did you know that mold only needs a few simple things to grow and multiply :

¾Moisture        ¾Organic Nutrients         ¾A suitable place to grow

Controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth.

In nature, molds help break down dead materials & can be found growing on soil, foods, plant matter & other organic items.

Mold should not be permitted to grow and multiply indoors.

Q:  How can I control mold growth in my home?
A:  Fix any moisture problems in your home:

• Stop all water leaks first.
• Repair leaking roofs and plumbing fixtures.

• Ventilate and insulate attic and crawl spaces.

• Increase air circulation within your home, especially along the inside of exterior walls, and ventilate with fresh air from outside.
• Provide warm air to all areas of the home.
• Move large objects away from the inside of exterior walls just a few inches to provide good air circulation.

• Install and use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

• Vacuum and clean your home regularly.

• Clean and dry water damaged carpets, clothing, bedding, upholstered furniture within 24 to 48 hours, or consider removing and replacing damaged furnishings.

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