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What causes mold, and how dangerous is it? How does one safely get rid of it? And, what would happen if it was left alone and not removed? — JB from Kernersville

The “seeds” of mold, known as spores, are present everywhere in the outdoor environment, where they will sprout on organic material that is damp or wet.

Many molds prefer to grow outdoors and will not do well indoors after blowing in on air currents or being carried in on shoes or pets. Certain molds, however, like to grow indoors on building materials, carpet, furnishings and inside ductwork. Unfortunately, many of these molds can cause building occupants to experience symptoms ranging from headaches and scratchy throats to fatigue and serious respiratory issues.

Removing the mold typically involves two steps:

• Stopping the moisture source that allowed it to grow.

• Removing the visible growth, airborne spores and any spores that have settled on surfaces in a higher than normal amount.

The Environmental Protection Agency has stated that one should not allow conditions for mold to grow indoors and that any visible mold that grows indoors should be removed as soon as possible. Notice that the EPA does not say that the mold must be black. Although the media have chosen to focus on what they have termed “toxic black mold,” the color of a visible mold colony is not a scientific way to determine its potential hazard level.

While a small amount of dark mold growing on grout in a shower or on floor joists in a crawlspace are usually considered quite normal and not necessarily a sign of a moisture issue, visible or hidden fungal growth on building materials or furnishings inside a building is not normal. Even the “normal” growth can cause issues for sensitized people. Mold colonies grow through the release of microscopic spores; therefore, any growth in a building has the potential to release spores that could be inhaled or ingested on food, through a beverage, or via the nasal passages.

Mold requires moisture to grow, so key to prevention of a mold issue is keeping the interior of a building dry. This sounds easy enough, but in reality is a challenge, especially for those living in a humid climate such as North Carolina.

About our contributorCraig Whittaker, president and founder of Environmental Solutions Group in Greensboro, is an industrial hygienist and indoor air quality specialist.

ESG may be reached at 373-1538 or online at www.esgtesting.com.

Tips from the Pros features tips on issues of interest to homeowners. Local professionals are encouraged to participate. Contact Heather L. Modlin at 373-7144 or e-mail heather.modlin@news-record.com. Tips are submitted by area industry professionals and are the opinions of our experts. Triad Homes does not make any representations as to opinions and facts.