THE LIFECYCLE OF A MOLD SPORE
Molds are a member of the fungi family. They occur naturally in the outdoor environment and can easily find their way indoors. While individual mold spores are microscopic in size, as they grow, they can take on a fuzzy appearance. Mold spores can be found on virtually any organic substance including wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates indoors or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.
Molds reproduce by means of spores and float through outdoor and indoor air. Some molds have spores that are easily disturbed and waft into the air and settle repeatedly with each disturbance. Other molds have sticky spores that will cling to surfaces and are dislodged by brushing against them or by other direct contact. Spores in the air outside can also attach themselves to people and pets, introducing the mold spores into your house.
Mold needs three things to grow:
- A food source
- Optimal temperature zone
- Moisture
When mold spores land on a damp spot, they can begin growing and will digest whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Spores can grow for years after they are produced as long as they have moisture.
Even dead mold can remain allergenic for years.
Over time, molds destroy the surfaces they grow on. The best way to control and prevent future growth is to prevent water penetration and intrusion from the outside and to control indoor moisture levels. If you live in Southeastern Pennsylvania and are concerned about mold growing in your home or building, Environmental Mold Solutions can help locate the source of the moisture causing the mold growth and treat your mold issue in order to improve the health of the indoor environment. Contact us today to get started.