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| FAQ |
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1. Q) Are indoor molds a problem in the arid climate of Colorado? A) Yes. Although Colorado has a dry, arid climate many molds can still grow and spread if supplied with the right nutrients and atmosphere. While Colorado will most likely not commonly encounter the severity of mold problems that they experience regularly in the warm humid states such as Texas and California, the same molds are found in Colorado growing rapidly in areas that have been inundated with moisture and/or that are not properly ventilated. 2. Q) Mold has been around since biblical times. Why are we all of a sudden experiencing problems with it now? A) Since the 1980’s homes and buildings have been constructed “tighter” in order to reduce infiltration to improve comfort and save energy. Although these tightly sealed structures are better at holding in heat they are also more likely to trap moisture that feeds any mold spores attached onto your building materials when proper ventilation is not practiced. Also, since the average person spends at least 90% of their time indoors they are more likely to experience adverse health effects to common outdoor biological contaminants that are present or growing inside a controlled environment. 3. Q) Can mold cause health problems? A) Allergies are probably the most common reaction to contact with molds. The allergic reaction will depend on the severity of the allergy but usually symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose and eye irritation. If the mold spores are “toxic” they can adversely affect the health of humans. The effect will depend on the susceptibility of the individual, the type of mold involved, the byproduct excretions from the mold, as well as how much contact there is and the length of exposure to the mold. 4. Q) Is the mildew growing in my shower something I should be concerned about? A) The mildew growing in your shower is the result of improper ventilation when humidity levels rise. Mildew doesn’t usually exhibit the toxic properties that some molds do but some individuals have strong reactions to the odor associated with mildew. Mildew is usually only surficial and can be cleaned by scrubbing the area with a ½ percent bleach solution. Install a bathroom fan or at least open a window to exhaust moisture to prevent mildew from returning. 5. Q) Is all mold toxic? A) No, the majority of molds are not toxic, though most are allergenic. Some fungi produce byproduct chemicals called mycotoxins which can cause a toxic response in humans if ingested, inhaled or in contact with the skin. Research is being conducted to determine if mycotoxins produced by mold contribute to a variety of health symptoms experienced by those who live and work in environments with a high fungal load. Under damp conditions specific species of mold may produce mycotoxins such as Aspergillus (versicolor), Penicillium (chrysogenum and expansum) and Stachybotrys (chartarum). 6. Q) What do I do if I suspect a mold problem in my house or business? A) Contact a qualified and Certified Professional to evaluate the site and provide you with your options. 7. Q) Can a mold problem in my home be fixed? A) A remediation plan for mold infected areas should be prepared and performed by Qualified Professionals. In most cases homes, businesses and personal belongings can be remediated to acceptable levels.
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