The Science of Mold

            Eliminating mold growth, or even the possibility of mold growth, is a key component of Water Damage Restoration.  Mold is a type of fungus, and fungus microbes can be found everywhere.  With over 100,000 species of fungus having been identified, they have become a part of our everyday environment.  Every cubic foot of air that we breathe will have from a few to several hundred spores.  But where do these spores come from, and how do they go from just a few, or several hundred, to several thousand spores per million per cubic foot of air that we breathe?  Good questions!

            Mold needs three things to grow: darkness, moisture and food.  Two of that trio already exists in your home: darkness and food. When a water intrusion occurs, the trio is complete.  If left unchecked, mold growth can begin within 24 hours.  Prolonged exposure to persistent moisture enables microbes to flourish.  These microbes will eventually contaminate the indoor air and create health risks for those who live and work there. 

            Mildew is microscopic and has no odor.  It is the bacterial action associated with the growth of mildew, the waste products, which are perceived as a foul odor.  It is also what becomes visible after several hours of ideal growth conditions.

            It is highly recommended that persons responsible for treating mold affected materials in your home understand The Science of Mold Growth.