Most people have probably had firsthand experience with mold at some point, perhaps on a loaf of bread that had been left out for too long or maybe even growing inside their homes. There are a lot of misconceptions about mold though, and thankfully remediation is usually pretty simple. 

 

What Exactly is Mold?

Mold is simply a collective term for different groups of fungi. 

• These fungi grow in areas of moisture
• The spores that spread mold are extremely small, and can easily make their way into buildings when air enters the building or if they are carried inside by a human or animal entering the building. 
• For this reason, it's common for mold to be present in many homes at small levels. Problems only arise when the mold finds a place to prosper in a building and starts to grow. 
• There are many different types of mold, and many different colors as well. However, all visible mold issues should be treated the same. 
• It is usually impossible to identify certain types of mold based on sight alone, and color is not necessarily an indicator of how dangerous a mold type is. 

 

What are the Health Effects of Mold?

• The problems with mold are generally due to the fact that mold is airborne, and can therefore be breathed in or encountered on the eyes/skin by humans. 
• Problems are typically respiratory. Mold can cause:
• Upper respiratory symptoms, coughing, and wheezing in otherwise healthy individuals
• Red or itchy eyes/skin may also occur
• Increased bouts of asthma symptoms in those with asthma
• Studies have linked household mold to the development of asthma in children. 
• The response to mold is based on the individual; those with allergies, asthma, existing lung conditions/diseases, and the immunocompromised are at increased risk for adverse reactions to mold.

 

How Can I Prevent Mold?

All molds require moisture to thrive, and therefore controlling moisture and humidity levels in your home is the most effective way to combat mold growth. 

• Keep the humidity level low in your home at all times- between 30% and 50% relative humidity, ideally. 
• The use of an air conditioner or dehumidifier may be necessary if the weather is especially humid in your area.
• Properly maintain your home to prevent leaks (in walls, ceilings, the floor, plumbing, etc.) and be sure to effectively dry any areas water does penetrate. 
• Ensure your home has proper ventilation. 
• Exhaust fans that vent outside in kitchens and bathrooms can be helpful.

 

How Can I Get Rid of Mold?

Deciding on how to address existing mold issues depends on a number of factors, including how big of an area is affected and what specifically the mold is growing on. 

• If the mold is restricted to a relatively small area and is growing on a hard surface that is easily cleaned (for example inside a bath tub or on bathroom tiles) then it is likely you can handle the mold cleanup yourself without professional aid. 
• If the mold covers an extensive area or is growing in an environment that holds moisture well and cannot be easily cleaned and dried (for example ceiling tiles or carpet) then it is likely you will have to remove and replace the material the mold is growing on, and you may want to consider hiring professional help to address the issue. 
• If you decide to remove the mold yourself:
• The first issue you address should be the moisture that allowed the mold to grow in the first place.
• Find and eliminate the source of the moisture if possible (this would be applicable if there were a leak or other specific source of water/moisture)
• Decide on a method to reduce humidity in the area if there's not a specific source of water or humidity (install ventilation fans, use a dehumidifier, etc.)
• If the affected area is a material that holds moisture well (ceiling tiles, insulation, carpet, drywall, etc.) you will have to remove the affected material and replace it once the moisture issues are addressed. 
• If the affected area is a hard, easily cleaned surface (such as wood, ceramic tile, or shower/bathtub surfaces) then the mold may be scrubbed away manually. 
• This is fairly simple and can be accomplished with only a bristle brush and water with cleaner added (such as soap, detergent, bleach, etc.)
• Use caution if you decide to use bleach, particularly in enclosed ares. Don't mix bleach and ammonia products and ensure there is proper ventilation in the area you're working in. 

 

If You Decide to Hire a Contractor:

For larger mold remediation jobs or in instances where the individual is unable to completely eliminate the mold problem themselves, hiring outside help can be extremely beneficial. 

• There  are some resources available that can help ensure you hire a reputable and professional contractor:
• The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has a web page dedicated to information about hiring a contractor. 
• The website includes links to specific certified contractors, and has also organized contractors by the county they serve as well as statewide companies.