Like most living things, mold needs three essentials to survive: water, air and food. It derives water from its environment, causing it to thrive in warm, damp, humid conditions. It derives food from any organic surface, such as wood, paper, dust, paint, glue, wallpaper and cardboard.

Mold produces extremely small spores. These spores can become easily airborne traveling by breeze, water drop, person or animal.

Interestingly, no one knows the exact number of mold species on the planet. But estimates range from 10,000 to 300,000. What we do know, however, is that all mold species have the potential to cause health issues and to damage building materials and furnishings.

Reactions to mold and severity of symptoms can vary based on a number of factors including:

• Length of exposure
• Age of person exposed
• Individual sensitivities/allergies

A few symptoms and/or allergic reactions you may experience include:

• Nasal congestion with runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes
• Skin rash and itching
• Respiratory difficulties such as asthma, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath

Another health risk of mold exposure is a compromised immune system, which can put you at greater risk for infections affection skin, eyes, lungs and other organs.

Since all species of mold can pose health risks as well as building damage, it is important to begin mold remediation upon first signs of growth. Here are some red flags indicating mold is an issue:

• Growth on floor joists in basement
• Growth on rafters and sheathing in attic
• Growth around the window seals and air conditioner surfaces
• Musty, mildew types of odor

Not only should you be vigilant about visible mold, but also be advised that hidden mold can be equally or more dangerous left untreated. Hidden mold can grow inside wall cavities, wallpaper, paneling, ceiling tiles, walls, behind furniture, drain pans and air handling units.

 If you are worried about visible or hidden mold, feel free to give us a call for a free in-home inspection: (251) 308-1716.

Enzymes! We use EPA-registered products created with all-natural, organic enzymes specifically engineered to render mold inert. This breakthrough technology offers a greener, faster and safer method of mold removal that keeps you and your family safe from harmful mold spores as well as the harsh chemicals some companies use to remove them.

Our professional testing can verify and identify indoor air quality issues. All samples collected go to a reputable independent testing laboratory, where a documented report is generated. From this, we custom-create a solution tailored to your needs.