What is Mold?
Mold is a fungus that lives and grows all around us. Molds spread by emitting microscopic spores that travel through the air. When the spores land and conditions are right, they begin digesting the material they are on and mold develops. Molds can grow on almost any surface including carpet, wood, drywall, paper, dust, ductwork, insulation, wallpaper, and clothing, among many others. There are thousands of mold species and over 270 different mold types have been identified in Canadian homes.
Why Should I Be Concerned About Mold?
Left unchecked, mold can lead to structural damage of your home. Mold can damage your belongings by causing discoloration and decomposing materials. It can cause nuisance odors. Even worse, mold can cause serious health problems. Mold is a part of our natural environment but indoor mold can make you very sick.
Symptoms of Mold Exposure
People with weakened immune systems, allergies, and asthma are more sensitive to mold. Mold affects people differently but some of the most common health effects include:
- nasal and sinus inflammation or congestion
- dry, hacking cough
- sneezing
- red burning, itchy eyes
- upper respiratory distress
- chronic headaches and mood swings
- flu-like symptoms
- skin rash
- sore throat
- diarrhea
- chronic fatigue
- aggravated asthma
- aches and pains
- shortness of breath
Long-term exposure to indoor mold is dangerous for anyone and can be severe for children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with respiratory conditions, and those with weakened immune systems. Signs of long-term exposure include severe instances of symptoms above as well as memory loss, ear inflammation, joint pains, nosebleeds, and bleeding lungs.
Mold-related illnesses can be misdiagnosed as people are often unaware they have a mold problem.
Should I See a Doctor?
If you or others in your home are suffering from symptoms you believe to be caused by mold, you should see a doctor. Tell the physician about the symptoms, how long you have suffered from the symptoms, and your belief that they are caused by mold.
Is There Mold in My House?
If your home has a constant mildew smell or you want to find moldy areas, try looking in these areas:
- under carpets
- in old curtains
- behind walls and ceiling tiles
- on your paint
- behind appliances
- in boxes of old books
- in old, unworn clothing
- areas in your home that were once flooded or water damaged
- around pipes and in ducts
- on and behind furniture
- under cabinets
How Can I Recognize Mold?
Mold can be almost any colour – black, white, red, blue, and anything in between. The texture can appear grainy or fluffy or smooth or shiny. It can have pink or purple specks. It usually smells dusty and earthen although it can seem odourless.
To find out if a discoloured area is mold, apply a drop or two of bleach to it. If it loses its colour or disappears, it is likely to be mold and not just a stain or grime.
What is That Black Stuff in My Shower?
It is mold but chances are it is not toxic. It can cause allergy-like symptoms so you shouldn’t leave it unchecked. To clean it, combine one part of bleach to three parts of water and apply it to the area. Wait a few minutes and rinse with clean water. If necessary, repeat with a stronger bleach solution. Do not use undiluted bleach as it is less effective than a bleach and water mixture.
Should I Have My Home Tested For Mold?
Testing for mold is expensive and usually not covered by home insurance. There are no established unacceptable or acceptable mold levels in Canada so test results may not give you definitive answers. Testing does not pinpoint mold locations. If you suspect you have a mold problem, consider using your resources locating potential mold, controlling moisture levels and, if needed, having a professional remove the mold instead of having tests done.
Being aware of the hazards of mold and knowing what to look for is your first step in mold management.
Sources:
Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Toby Welch - Toby is a full-time freelance writer who specializes in magazine articles, online writing, e-books, and manuscript editing.
Join the Conversation