"Mold is Gold" has become the battle cry of some of Americas' lawyers.
There have been high profile cases where people have claimed that molds have destroyed their health as well as their home.
This article is not about who is right and who is wrong.
It is about presenting some facts and how you can avoid problems.
Here , there and everywhere
It is found outdoors and indoors.
It doesn't really become a problem inside until there is a water problem, such as a plumbing leak, rainwater leak or very high indoor humidity levels.
It needs water and food to grow.
Typical foods are cardboard, dust, paper, wood, dust mites, some paints, pastes and adhesives.
How your health is affected
According to a New York City Health Department fact sheet, most types of mold that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to healthy individuals.
Too much exposure may cause or worsen conditions such as asthma, hay fever or other allergens.
Common symptoms of over-exposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, eye irritation and aggravation of asthma.
Depending on the amount of exposure and a persons' vulnerability, more serious health effects such as fever, breathing problems, nausea and skin rashes can occur.
Newborns, the elderly and those with poor immune symptoms can be affected severely.
Some symptoms associated with mold exposure may be caused by many other illnesses.
How much is too much?
No one really knows at this time.
Until science gets better, common sense should dictate that you should not live in a moldy house!
Testing
There are some experts who say testing for molds does little good.
They state that there are no standards that address acceptable or unacceptable levels.
A good rule is, "if you can smell it or see it, then you have it".
Cleaning
If you suspect you have mold you don't have to panic.
You can call a mold remediation expert to test and investigate for you.
Avoidance
Remember, Water is the culprit!
* Be sure to repair plumbing leaks immediately
* Keep rain gutters clean and operable
* If you insulate your basement, do not use fiberglass or cellulose on the walls, use rigid semi-permeable insulation
* Use a ventilator for your bathroom or kitchen that is piped to the outside, not into the attic
* Do not store boxes or clothes too close to an outside wall (especially in cold climates)
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