What is Mold?

Mold is a natural byproduct of the fungi family that thrives when nutrients (primarily organic substances and water) are found in the right conditions. Mold spores can remain dormant for years when moisture in not present, but thrives when moisture and nutrients become present.

There is such a thing as ìgoodî mold. Some molds are used in producing penicillin and antibiotics, as well as many types of cheese. Without mold and its decaying mechanism, the natural environment would be overwhelmed with large amounts of dead organic matter.

Despite many harmless and beneficial molds, some molds can be toxic and pose very serious health threats to humans. They can produce allergic reactions, flu-like symptoms, and worsening of asthma. Often reported as a toxic mold is Stachybotrys Chartarum, a greenish-black mold, which can easily grow on materials such as fiberboard, drywall, paper, dust, and lint in the presence of moisture.

Preventing Mold Growth

¸ Consider air conditioning (possibly augmented with a dehumidification system.) These systems pull the moisture from the building, thus minimizing growth by depriving mold of one of its nutrients.

¸ Use caution when you turn off your air conditioning. Without use of HVACR equipment for extended periods of time, humidity levels may rise in buildings allowing mold to thrive.

¸ Install insulation and vapor barriers to prevent condensation on cold objects such as water pipes, beams, and plumbing fixtures.

¸ Keep sinks, showers, tubs and other ìwetî areas free of standing water.

¸ Demand architectural, design, and construction applications that prevent water from entering the interior.

¸ Maintain the integrity of the building envelope through regular inspections of caulking, roof flashing, and sealing of the buildings exterior.

¸ Respond immediately to any leaks whether building related or equipment related.

¸ Have semi-annual maintenance performed on HVACR mechanical systems. If water pooling or dust and dirt are allowed to accumulate in a system, the HVACR system could support mold growth.

¸ Have your HVACR contractor ensure proper airflow and ventilation is maintained.

¸ Inform your HVACR contractor of your mold concerns and point out locations of suspicion or evidence of mold.

¸ Educate your family or building occupants about mold, the dangers, and prevention.

If You Suspect Mold

Alert your HVACR contractor regarding your concerns. If health issues are present, evacuation, abatement, and remediation are necessary.

The identification of mold requires specialized testing and laboratory analysis to determine the type of mold and any of the health hazards that may be associated with it.



What is a Comfort Specialist? Maintenance Agreement Coupon Info Request a Service Call	What is Mold? Mold is a natural byproduct of the fungi family that thrives when nutrients (primarily organic substances and water) are found in the right conditions. Mold spores can remain dormant for years when moisture in not present, but thrives when moisture and nutrients become present. There is such a thing as ìgoodî mold. Some molds are used in producing penicillin and antibiotics, as well as many types of cheese. Without mold and its decaying mechanism, the natural environment would be overwhelmed with large amounts of dead organic matter. Despite many harmless and beneficial molds, some molds can be toxic and pose very serious health threats to humans. They can produce allergic reactions, flu-like symptoms, and worsening of asthma. Often reported as a toxic mold is Stachybotrys Chartarum, a greenish-black mold, which can easily grow on materials such as fiberboard, drywall, paper, dust, and lint in the presence of moisture. Preventing Mold Growth ¸ Consider air conditioning (possibly augmented with a dehumidification system.) These systems pull the moisture from the building, thus minimizing growth by depriving mold of one of its nutrients. ¸ Use caution when you turn off your air conditioning. Without use of HVACR equipment for extended periods of time, humidity levels may rise in buildings allowing mold to thrive. ¸ Install insulation and vapor barriers to prevent condensation on cold objects such as water pipes, beams, and plumbing fixtures. ¸ Keep sinks, showers, tubs and other ìwetî areas free of standing water. ¸ Demand architectural, design, and construction applications that prevent water from entering the interior. ¸ Maintain the integrity of the building envelope through regular inspections of caulking, roof flashing, and sealing of the buildings exterior. ¸ Respond immediately to any leaks whether building related or equipment related. ¸ Have semi-annual maintenance performed on HVACR mechanical systems. If water pooling or dust and dirt are allowed to accumulate in a system, the HVACR system could support mold growth. ¸ Have your HVACR contractor ensure proper airflow and ventilation is maintained. ¸ Inform your HVACR contractor of your mold concerns and point out locations of suspicion or evidence of mold. ¸ Educate your family or building occupants about mold, the dangers, and prevention. If You Suspect Mold Alert your HVACR contractor regarding your concerns. If health issues are present, evacuation, abatement, and remediation are necessary. The identification of mold requires specialized testing and laboratory analysis to determine the type of mold and any of the health hazards that may be associated with it.