Mold (fungi) are essential to the ecosystem, as they are the principal organism for breaking down and degrading plants and animals after they have died. The spores of fungi are virtually everywhere, waiting for their cues to go to work in the recycling process.

Wood and paper are particularly subject to the colonization of mold, and as most houses are built of wood and have walls made of drywall, which is plaster encased in paper, this becomes a subject which should concern homeowners. Once germinated and colonized, spores are created which can easily get into the air of the home or business, often causing a variety of symptoms ranging from headaches to respiratory difficulties to generalized sickness and fatigue.

In order for a mold spore to germinate and then colonize, the major factors are moisture, temperature and nutrition, pH and oxygen. Water is singularly the most vital ingredient, so much so that the most effective way to prevent mold growth is to simply keep materials dry. Most molds can germinate from 24 hours to 2 weeks. If materials do get wet, dry them out quickly and thoroughly.

Some additional tips to help prevent mold are:
1. Fix leaks immediately.
2. Keep bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms well ventilated.
3. Regularly inspect closed off rooms and areas, such as closets and storerooms.
4. Clean up small areas of mold with a solution of 5 parts water and 1 part bleach.

For areas larger than 2 square feet, call a professional. You may have an extensive problem that will involve removing and/or treating the affected materials. This work should be done by someone certified in mold remediation and removal. At A-l Cleaning Connection, Inc., we are affilliated with A-1 Mold Testing and Remediation which is certified by the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) - one of the leaders in setting standards in the field of removing harmful particulate, gases and micro-organisms from indoor air.

If you have any questions about mold please feel free to call our office at 421-2171