About Toxic Mold

what is toxic mold?

Mold, fungi and mildew are all terms generally used to describe a specific group of organisms that can be found both indoors and outdoors. Molds grow wherever there is enough surface moisture to keep them alive and are found in every type of environment, and in every social and economic condition.

Mold and mold spores require moisture and a food source, such as cellulose or decaying food to grow. As mold spores swell with water and grow, they elongate, forming balloon-like protuberances (hyphae), which secrete digestive enzymes and mycotoxins. The fungi then digest the food source to support their growth. About 100,000 fungal species have already been identified; in fact, fungi are estimated to comprise an astounding 25% of the world’s biomass. Molds are capable of growing on a variety of different surfaces, like, fabric, paper, and wood. The most common indoor molds are:

• Stachybotrys – also known as ‘toxic black mold’, produces trichothecenes and other mycotoxins. It feeds off cellulose usually found in dry wall and can become airborne on dust particulates.
• Alternaria – found in damp places indoors, such as showers or under leaky sinks or ceilings.
• Aspergillus – found growing on dust, powdery food items, and building materials like dry wall.
• Penecillium – found typically on water damaged materials and are mostly of green and blue color.
• Cladosporium – capable of growing in cool areas as well as warm areas.
• Chaetomium – found on wet drywall, wall-paper, carpets, window frames, baseboards, and plywood.

WHY DO I HAVE MOLD IN MY HOME OR WORK SPACE?

Water damage is a leading culprit of mold toxicity. Since odorless mold can live in hidden spots and floorboards, it often lurks quietly and indefinitely.

Mold spores are invisible to the naked eye, but still are found everywhere. Open windows, doorways and even ventilation systems are getaways through which these spores can enter the home or office. These molds will only land somewhere if the conditions are ideal for their growth i.e. places with excessive moisture and with a supply of suitable nutrients. Wet cellulose materials act as a great support for mold growth – these includes paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles and wood products. Wallpaper, insulation materials and upholstery are other typical launch pads for mold growth.

How do I test my home for toxic mold?

Environmental sampling can be performed to check for spores and mycotoxins. Placing agar plated mold dishes in suspected moldy environments can yield counts of colony forming units. One study implies more than four colonies could be a problem, especially for those with recurrent sinusitis.

Calling in a mold inspector to do a thorough evaluation and written report of their findings is important. If litigation is involved it is wise to bring in a CIH, Certified Industrial Hygienist, who is qualified by training to determine the presence and extent of mold overgrowth.