10 Facts About Mold That You May Not Know

Do you know all the facts about mold that you should? The average person isn’t educated about mold, and most people don’t seek answers or do their research until they have found mold in their home or have been affected by mold in some way.

Mold affects more people than you might think. Mold is everywhere. It surrounds us. In one way or another, mold affects us all! You may even be exposed to it right now whether you know it or not. Because it is so predominant in our world, there are some basic facts about mold that everyone should know. Here are 10 facts about mold that you may not know … but should!

Long-term Exposure to Mold can be Fatal

Mold can cause all sorts of health issues from mild allergies to death. Skin rashes, respiratory issues, reproductive issues and many more ailments have been linked back to mold. Exposure has been linked to cold and flu-like symptoms as well as sinus infections and headache. But it get a lot more serious than that. In fact, long-term mold exposure has even been linked to pregnancy miscarriages and death in the very young, the elderly and immune compromised.

Bleach Does Not Kill Mold

It is a common misconception that you can use bleach to kill and get rid of mold in your home. A lot of people see a bit of mold and immediately grab that bottle of bleach. Bleach does not kill mold. The mold will typically grow back within a few weeks of being sprayed. By this time, the homeowner may have forgotten about it or covered it up.

Mold Can Grow on Christmas Trees

Have you ever noticed that your allergies tend to act up more during the Christmas holiday? You may think it is the cold weather, but it can actually be from the mold growing on your Christmas tree. When a live tree is brought indoors and the temperature is just right, you can get mold growth in a very short time period. The amount of mold will continue to grow until the tree is removed from the home. Some people are especially sensitive to allergies in general or mold specifically and immediately see an increase in symptoms right around Christmas. You can avoid this by not using a live tree.

You Cannot Paint over Mold

Mold will grow back through paint, even through mold resistant paint or the paints that claim they kill mold. Mold is often deeper than what you can see with your eyes, and paint will not get rid of it. In a short amount of time (typically a few weeks), you will see the paint begin to crack or bubble, and you will see the mold begin to come through.

There are Over 100,000 Different Types of Mold

Yep, you read that right. One of the facts about mold you may not have known is exactly how much is out there. There are over 100,000 different types of mold in the world we live in. Not all types of mold are harmful, and some are even used for medicinal purposes. With so many different types of mold, it can be nearly impossible for the average person to know the difference between beneficial and harmful molds.

Homebuyers Should Ask for a Mold Inspection

If you are shopping for a new home, you should consider asking for a mold inspection. If the home has reported previous flooding or is in a floodplain, this is even more important. However, you should consider requesting a mold inspection no matter what type of house you are looking to purchase. Even brand new construction can have mold growth present.

Insurance Policies Often Do Not Cover Mold

Always check with your insurance and home owner’s policy and know the facts. Most of the time, your typical insurance policy does not cover mold damage or even flood damage. You may need a separate policy or be prepared to pay out of pocket should you find mold in your home.

Mold is Everywhere

Micro-spores of mold are everywhere. Literally everywhere. One of the facts about mold you may not know is that it surrounds us both indoors and outdoors. But not all of those spores are harmful to us. We eat some of them (bleu cheese for example). We use some of them in medicine. Many others exist without ever causing us harm. The problem arises when large amounts of spores actively grow in one area such as your home.

Mold in Your Home Means Moisture Intrusion

If you have found mold in your home, there is almost always an underlying cause. Moisture intrusion is occurring somewhere, even if it isn’t obvious. It could be a leak or a defect allowing rainwater to seep inside. It could have been from a flood or a simple hose drip or bad seal on your window. When you find mold, it is important to get rid of it. But if you don’t want it coming back, it is equally important to find the source of moisture and remedy it.

Mold can Grow on Many Surfaces

Mold can grow on any organic or porous material when the conditions are right. While it cannot grow on non-porous surfaces such as glass or concrete, it can absolutely grow on dust layers that may accumulate on those surfaces. Your home is full of surfaces that mold can take hold on and grow.

Facts about Mold – Conclusion

These are 10 facts about mold that you may not have known. You can use this basic knowledge about mold to be better aware of its presence and impact in your life. There is a lot that you can do to prevent serious growth and complications. You don’t have to be an expert to make a difference.

However, because there is so much to learn about mold, it is impossible to know everything without specific education on the topic. For this reason, mold remediation is best left to the experts who have been specifically trained on mold growth and removal. If you suspect mold is growing in your home, seek out an expert.