The key to controlling Mold in homes and buildings is moisture control and cleanliness.   Mold needs water and a food source (dirt, dust, cellulose materials such as paper on drywall, wood, fiberboard, stored items, etc.)

Do not ignore plumbing or roof leaks in your home.  Water stains on ceilings should be investigated immediately and the problem(s) fixed.  Mold starts to grow within 24 hours.  The plumbing leak in the following photograph resulted in mold growth and elevated mold conditions in this home.   

Rooms with high humidity (such as basements) can cause mold growth on furniture and stored items.

Water penetration and leaks in basements should be attended to immediately.  Completely dry and/or remove and throw away wet components.  

All below grade concrete basements should be dehumidified, if humidity levels are above recommended levels.  See chart below.

The United States Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides extensive information on their website which may help you understand what is causing mold growth in your building.

http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldresources.html

"A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home"

http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html

From the EPA:

"The key to mold control is moisture control. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Wash mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles & carpet) that become moldy may have to be replaced."

"Hidden Mold" http://www.epa.gov/mold/hiddenmold.html

"Suspicion of hidden mold - You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and residents are reporting health problems. Mold may be hidden in places such as the back side of dry wall, wallpaper, or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets and pads, etc. Other possible locations of hidden mold include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation). "

Humidity levels in basements should be monitored and basements should be de-humidified, if necessary. From the EPA site:

Outdoor Recommended Indoor Temperature Relative Humidity

Copyright © 1999-2006 Sandra Maida
Last modified: June 25, 2007