Mold is a common resident of the outdoor environment – as common as trees and weeds. Although there can be seasonal spikes in mold growth, similar to pollen, outdoor mold is rarely a problem. In fact, it’s rarely even noticeable.

Mold growing indoors, however, is a different story. Unfortunately, high concentrations of indoor mold can create health problems ranging from mild irritation to chronic respiratory conditions. This can be a problem for schools and public buildings.

According to the EPA, many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants.

Mold spores are the reproduction cells of mold. Similar to how flowers release a large amount of pollen, mold releases millions of spores into the air. The vast majority will never become a new mold colony, but because so many are released, it’s almost inevitable that some will find a comfortable home. A new mold colony forms when an airborne mold spore lands in an ideal environment:

• Temperatures within 50 to 70 degrees are generally the best for mold.
• Mold spores need food. Any organic matter can serve as a food source, including wood, paper, and organic fibers. Even the paper on sheetrock is a potential source of life-sustaining nutrients for mold.
• Moisture is the final requirement. Small puddles of water and overall dampness on materials are enough for mold to grow, but mold can also extract the moisture it needs from the air, which is why high humidity levels are a contributing factor.