Common questions about mold continue to come up in discussions about older homes in Charlotte.  The most common questions are why is mold growing in my house; can mold cause health problems; how do I get rid of mold.  These issues are clearly discussed in the Environmental Protection Agencies (EPA) Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home.

Mold is often lumped together with words like “asbestos, lead, and radon” and they all seem to make buyers, sellers and real estate agent cringe.  Often times, the level of mold contamination, like many things, is overstated.  And many times what may seem to be a problem, is no problem at all – there is of course the reverse too and that is what may seem to be a little problem, could, in fact, be much larger than anticipated.

Here is a list of basic truths about mold:

1.    Not all mold is dangerous.
2.    Different people react differently to different types of mold.
3.    Mold is everywhere and has been around since the beginning of time – it is an essential part of our ecosystem.
4.    Mold requires moisture to grow in addition to appropriate food sources.
5.    Moisture sources include leaking pipes, wet and damp basements, condensation, high humidity.
6.    Food sources include wood, wall paper, drywall, carpet, bio-films (dirt, dust, oils, grease).
7.    Spraying bleach on mold is NOT a good cleaning method.
8.    The best cleaning method is through removal, whether removing the material or cleaning with a detergent.
9.    Do-it-yourself test kits will always produce positive mold levels (see #3).
10.    Be careful what you read or watch in the media – it is often over sensationalized.
11.    Mold remediation is in the Bible – see Leviticus 14.
12.    Black mold, red mold, white mold, yellow mold – mold comes in all colors.
13.    Mold grows like dandelions – a small problem can get overwhelming quickly if not corrected properly.
14.    Mold can be hidden in attics, behind walls and other areas where moisture could be present.
15.    Dead mold can still pose a potential risk to sensitive individuals.  It’s important to remove it, not just try and kill it.

There are many companies that specialize in Mold abatement or other environmental issues the impact your home.  For more information visit the Environmental Protection Agency website for more information.