Why Does Mold Grow In Buildings?

Mold grows in buildings because there is a source of water and the mold spores have "found" it.  Molds are part of the natural environment.  Outdoors, Molds play an important part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees.  Indoors however, they are another matter.

Indoor mold growth should always be avoided.  Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air.  Molds often begin growing in homes and other buildings when the spores land on wet surfaces.  There are many types of mold, but none can grow without water or at least moisture.

Can Mold Cause Health Problems?

Mold spores are found in every indoor environment, and are usually not a problem unless the spores land on a  wet or damp surface.  Then they begin growing.  At that point molds are a potentially serious health hazard.  Green Air Solutions will determine what kinds of molds are present and if they present a health hazard. 

Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases toxic substances (mycotoxins).  Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.  Allergic reactions include hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, headaches, and skin rash.  Allergic reactions to molds are very common.  Molds can also cause asthma attacks in asthmatics who are allergic to mold.  In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs of both mold allergic and non-allergic people. 

If there is harmful mold in any environment where people spend time, it could make some of them very sick.  When high amounts of airborne toxic mold spores are inhaled deep into the lungs they can enter the bloodstream and affect the immune system, nervous system, liver, kidneys, blood and cause brain damage. 


  What Can Be Done If Mold Is Found?

   Finding out exactly what people are breathing in a building is a concern for everyone, from homeowners, health       officials, business owners, daycare operators, nursing home and church administrators, school and government officials. 

Green Air Solutions tests and advises building owners on a number of issues.

  • Is there Mold?
  • If so, what kind?
  • What can be done to mitigate the existing problem?
  • How can we prevent a recurrence? 

Ultimately, Green Air Solutions will provide a high level of confidence that a site is clear of mold and "mold- encouraging" indoor environments.  So, if you suspect mold, recommend us or call us before anyone is affected!