Information on Mold and Mold Remediation for your Vail Valley Property

Wht is mold?
Molds are fungi. Molds grow throughout the natural and built environments. Tiny particales of mold are present in indoor and outdoor air. In nature, molds help break down dead materials and can be found growing on soil, foods, plant matter, and other items, but indoors, mold should be avoided. Molds produce microscopic cells called "spores" which are very tiny and spread easily through the air. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growth (colonies) when they find the right conditions.

What does mold need to grow?
Molds only need a few simple things to grow and multiply:
* Moisture
* Nutrients
* Suitable place to grow
When mold spores drop where there is excessive moisture in the home, they grow into colonies. In the majority of inspections I’ve conducted here in Eagle County in which mold was found, the most common problem areas are crawlspaces, attic spaces, and below sinks, likley because these areas are seldomly visited by the home owner. In crawlspaces, mold issues are usually a result of prior or ongoing plumbing leaks, or negative drainage from the home’s exterior. Crawlspaces not properly vented to the exterior or not equipped with de-humidification systems are also high risk areas for mold growth. In attic spaces, mold is usually caused by roof leaks, bathroom and/or kitchen exhausts vented into the attic space, or high levels of humidity and condensation due to improperly venting and/or insulation. Anytime there is unattended moisture in a home, there is a chance for mold.

Are there concerns of mold in homes?
Yes! If indoor mold is extensive, those in the home can be exposed to persisant airborne mold spores, and depending on the individual can cause a number of respiratory issues (nasal and sinus congestion, cough/wheeze/breathing dificulties, sore throat, skin and eye irritation, upper respiratory infections). Left unchecked, mold growth can cause structural damage to your home, and damage to furniture and floor coverings, thus affecting the home’s value.

What to do if mold is found in the home?
Identifying mold in a home is just the first step in the remediation process. After the presence of mold is identified, it is important to have a certified mold remediator (CMR) identify and remove the mold from the home. It is also necessary to identify and fix the source of moisture creating the mold. Mold is typically remediated by cleaning/removing all mold affected areas and ensuring the affected areas are properly dried and treated to prevent the return of mold growth.

If there is identified mold or suspicians of mold in the home, I recommend contacting Steam Master for all of your mold remediation needs. www.SteamMaster.com (970) 827-5555

For more information regarding Mold and Home Inspections, please visit us at:
www.EagleEyeHI.com
Eagle Eye Home Inspections
Dave Chasse
(970) 331-5558

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