VM3 Environmental Inc. - San Diego & Orange County Mold Inspections

The Genesis of Mold

Molds are microscopic fungi which assist the decomposition of organic materials in the environment. They do this by digesting organic material, which in turn is slowly destroyed. In residential structures, such organic material can range from the cellulose naturally found in wood to thin dust layers to fallen dead skin cells. Mold is observed visibly in the form of discoloration (green, gray, brown, etc.) and travels through the air via tiny released spores.

Manners of Indoor Mold Exposure and Its Subsequent Cause for Concern

We encounter mold everyday, both indoors and outside. It is when we are exposed to larger concentrated amounts of mold spores that mold becomes a health issue. Such molds become a concern because their conditions are ripe for growth: ample moisture and organic matter. The moisture source can commonly be traced to heavy rains, steam produced from bathing or cooking, faulty plumbing, misdirected sprinklers, or leaky roofs. When identifying a mold presence, discoloration in the walls and ceiling, musty odors, and warped flooring can be indications of mold existence.

High levels of mold infiltration can damage the structural integrity of the housing unit. For example, mold growing on a floor beam will gradually eat away and digest the wood particles, leaving a weakened flooring support. Mold can also create irreparable damage to house apparatus and personal belongings. Family heirlooms and photographs left in a moldy basement may soon become unsalvageable. Yet more personal and of a timelier concern is that fact that humans exposed to heavy concentrations of mold can develop allergens and other health problems. Sensitivities may vary from person to person, but typical symptoms of mold exposure are as follows:

• Wheezing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath and other respiratory problems.

• Nose, throat, or skin irritations

• Nasal and sinus congestion

• Burning, watery, or reddened eyes

In milder case, headaches, nosebleeds, memory problems, fevers, and body pains

have been associated with mold exposure, though their particular causes are not fully

understood.

For more Mold-related Issues, click here.

The following suggestions can assist you in preventing future outbreaks of mold in your home:

• Turn on bathroom exhaust fan for 10 minutes after showering/bathing. Routinely clean exhaust fans of dirt and dust accumulation.

• Check sprinkler systems to ensure properly aligned sprays and that the sprinklers are not located too close to residential walls.

• Perform routine inspections to plumbing fixtures to identify possible water leaks.

• Trim trees and plants to prevent them from abutting your home’s exterior. Plants can hold moisture upon your home surface in addition to blocking the necessary sunlight to dry up exterior surfaces.

• Examine outside painted surfaces for cracks and deterioration as paint acts as a barrier to moisture.

• Position items in rooms so as to prevent overcrowding and cluttering. A cluttered area can prevent proper air ventilation and lead to excessive dust accumulation.

• Use of dehumidifiers can decrease indoor moistures levels.

• Tiles should be properly sealed and caulked to prevent water infiltration.

• Remain alert to cracks in siding, stucco walls, etc., as these can permit water intrusion.

• Keep gutters free of debris and position gutter downspouts away from the residential structure. Downspouts terminating too close to a home can lead to water intrusion.

• Make sure dryer is properly ventilated outside. If improperly vented, warm, moist dryer air can promote viable conditions for mold growth.