As most home or business owners know, the existence of mold in either your home or business can present a multitude of health hazards while being a risk to materials and other personal belongings.

Due to molds effortless ability to grow, it can be extremely dangerous. While the majority of molds tend to grow naturally outdoors, mold spores can easily be carried into a home or business through open windows, ventilation grates, and air conditioning systems. In addition, mold spores can also be carried in on pets, clothing or shoes.

Just as it does outdoors, mold can easily grow indoors requiring nothing more than moisture and some source of food like lint, ceiling tiles, drywall, insulation, carpets, upholstery or wood.

The Health Hazards of Mold

Unfortunately, sensitivity to mold is not easily identifiable since it depends on the type of the actual mold present, the amount, the degree/length of exposure and the current health condition of the occupant.

Mold can cause a wide variety of health effects which can range from being insignificant to causing allergic reactions or illness which include nasal congestion, irritated eyes, shortness of breath, wheezing, and in very rare cases, mold infections in the lung.

Certain populations are at higher risk for infection when exposed to mold. These populations include:

• Infants and children
• The elderly
• Pregnant women
• Any person with some form of respiratory diseases, a weakened immune system, or those who suffer from allergiesoxic mold

A popular, yet inaccurate term used often is “toxic mold.” It is true that certain molds are toxigenic which means they can produce toxins, however the actual molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous.

Mold Damage to Materials and Personal Belongings

The growth of mold can easily cause stains or discoloration to materials. Such materials will likely be ruined overtime if mold has not been removed. These materials include:

• Moldy paper and cardboard. Easily disintegrate over time.
• Fabrics become damaged.
• If mold persistently continues to grow, it can be a sign of moisture conditions being favorable for the growth of fungi that can cause wood to rot and lead to structural damage.

If you are in need of any assistance with water damage and mold remediation, Able Restoration is your number one source for assistance with San Diego water damage, Riverside County water damage and water damage Orange County.

View all Ashley Ford's articles

---

About the Author:
Able Restoration is company based in Southern California. They can help you with Water Damage and Mold Remediation in San Diego County, Riverside County, Orange County and areas of San Bernardino County.

More Gardening & Landscaping articles