From Your Extension Office - Molds in the house - don't panic

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From Your Extension Office - Molds in the house - don't panic

Missouri Valley Times News - Missouri Valley,IA*

By: Clint Mc, on County Extension Education Director

03/06/2008

http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfmBRD=326 & dept_id=467429 & newsid=19367

557 & PAG=461 & rfi=9

We have received questions this month about mold growing in the

house and the potential of health problems. While any medical

questions should be directed to your family doctor, I will try to

share what we know about mold in the home.

Mold and mildew are forms of fungi that can sometimes become

problems in homes, on furnishings, and even on clothing. The

characteristic growth of mold produces a fuzzy mat that may range in

color from white to orange to green or blue or black. Mold growth is

often accompanied by a musty odor.

Molds need an organic food source, moisture, oxygen, and appropriate

temperatures to thrive. Relative humidity above 70 percent is best

for mold growth, but growth continues at a slower rate even at lower

humidity, according to Shouse, ISU Extension Engineer.

Molds and mold spores are everywhere in the outdoor and indoor

environment. Whenever mold spores settle on organic or dirty

surfaces, if the conditions of moisture and temperature are

favorable, the spores will germinate into new colonies of mold. Mold

colonies and spores can remain dormant for a time and resume growth

whenever favorable conditions return.

Molds are a critical part of the natural process that breaks down

organic materials in nature (as in composting). However, molds in a

home may destroy the materials on which they grow.

Mold spores in sufficient concentration can trigger allergic

reactions in many people, including cold-like or flu-like symptoms.

A few mold species can, under certain environmental conditions,

produce harmful mycotoxins.

Television programs have raised public concern about mycotoxin

production from a species of mold called Stachybotrys chartarum.

This specie is extremely rare, and rarely has there been a direct

cause-effect relationship established between the mold and health

problems. Health officials advise homeowners to attend to mold

problems in the home, but not to panic about this specific mold.

To prevent unwanted mold growth in the home, work to prevent the

moisture and humidity conditions that favor mold growth. Correct

building situations that cause condensation on walls and windows.

Proper insulation, thermal pane or storm windows, and good air

circulation will help. Try to avoid furniture or clothing placed

against cold exterior walls. Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms.

Reduce sources of moisture in the home. Kitchen range hoods,

bathroom exhaust fans, and clothes dryer vents should all be vented

to the outdoors. Make sure all fuel-burning furnaces, water heaters,

heating stoves, and fireplaces are vented and working properly.

Reduce indoor humidity in the winter to below 30 percent, 20

percent, or less when outdoor temperatures fall below zero.

A strong detergent such as TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a 10 percent

chlorine bleach solution will often remove mold and disinfect the

surface. Be aware that mold spores may become embedded in porous

surfaces such as concrete block, wood, or wallboard. If the mold

infestation is severe, the materials may have to be replaced.

Be sure to correct any building conditions that encouraged the mold

growth. After the surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried, a mildew-

resistant paint may help discourage additional mold growth. Porous

materials like acoustic ceiling panels and carpet pad are nearly

impossible to clean and should be replaced.

If the items, such as fabrics and furnishings can be carried

outdoors, sunlight and dry air will kill the mold and make it easier

to remove. After it's dry, brush the mold off and launder the items

using bleach, if allowed. Consult the care label.

If mold is prevalent when cleaning, choose a respirator designated

to filter out mold spores. Do not use a vacuum to clean up mold

indoors. Wash the mold away or remove it to the outdoors before

vacuuming. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.Ê