Frequently Asked Questions about Mould

Should I be concerned about serious health risks from mould?
What are the health effects of mould?
How common is mould in buildings?
How do moulds get inside and how do they grow?
What is Stachybotrys?
How do I know if I have a mould problem?
What should people do if they determine they have mould?
How do you keep mould out of buildings and homes?
Can I make my landlord test my apartment for mould?
Should I paint over mould?

Should I be concerned about serious health risks from mould?

It is important to note that everyone is exposed to mould spores on a daily basis. Mould grows naturally in our outdoor environment. Even though mould spores are found in our homes and buildings we do not want them growing there.  Mould is known to be an allergen and some cases toxic. There are very few reports of toxic moulds inside homes causing rare health conditions. A better safe than sorry approach should be taken. Any mould contamination existing inside buildings and homes should be eradicated. The Mayo tests found that over ninety-three percent of cases of chronic bronchitis were the result of fungal infection, not bacteria as is generally assumed. (Taken from Dr. Michael Pinto’s book Fungal Contamination, A Comprehensive Guide for Remediation)  Individuals with immune or respiratory problems, pregnant women, the elderly, and children may be at increased risk of illness from moulds.

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What are the health effects of mould?

Health effects of mould are dependant upon the individual, length of exposure, and volume of spores inhaled or ingested. Some effects include, but are not limited to:

• chronic headaches
• eyes, nose and throat irritation
• sneezing
• coughing
• nausea
• fever
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• chronic fatigue
• asthma/respiratory problems

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How common is mould in buildings?

Mould is very common in our homes and buildings. The most common mould found in our homes is mould found on bread.  All moulds are not harmful. But infestations of mould need to be controlled immediately upon discovery.

How do moulds get inside and how do they grow?

Mould spores may enter your home through open doorways, windows, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Spores may also attach themselves to people, animals, toys, shoes, and carry bags bringing the mould indoors.

Many building materials provide nutrients that allow the mould to cultivate when exposed to moisture. Wet materials, including paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products, are primary sites for mould growth. Other materials such as dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation materials, drywall, carpet, and upholstery, also support the growth of mould.

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 What is Stachybotrys?

Stachybotrys is a specific kind of mould present in our environment. Outdoor Stachybotrys moulds help decay organic matter. One particular species known as Stachybotrys atra (sometimes known as Stachybotrys chartarum) is prone to growth indoors. This mould is normally dark brown or black in colour. It can look slimy, sooty, or even like grayish white strands, depending on the amount of moisture available and the length of time it has been growing. Many other common indoor moulds can look similar to Stachybotrys.

It is important to remember no matter what type of mould you have removal is the only course of action.

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How do I know if I have a mould problem?

A visual examination is the most dependable means of identifying a mould problem. Musty odours or changes in health could be the first signs of mould in you home. Some signs to look for would be standing water, condensation on windows, floods, or roof leaks - all of which could lead to mould growth. Mould may grow in your wall cavities or attic spaces where it is not easily found. When not sure call in a professional.

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What should people do if they determine they have mould?

First thing to do if you have mould is determine the extent of the problem. This might, and most times should, be done in conjunction with a professional. This might require a consultation only, but remember health is the most important part of the cleanup process. A professional will be able to guide you in the right direction.

Underlying problems that have allowed the mould to grow will become part of the process to clean and rid your home of further unwanted mould growth.

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How do you keep mould out of buildings and homes?

Buildings should be inspected on a regular basis for evidence of water damage. Conditions such as water leaks, flooding, condensation or excessive humidity should be corrected immediately upon discovery to prevent mould from growing.

Recommendations:

• Be sure the building is properly ventilated
• Clean bathroom on a regular basis
• Wipe up spills immediately
• Remove or dry out flood damaged building materials within 24 to 48hrs

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Can I make my landlord test my apartment for mould?

No. If you believe you have a mould problem, you will need to take pictures and document your problem, or contact us for an inspection by one of our certified mould inspectors. You may need to take the information gathered to the Rental Tribunal or your local building standards by-law office for help remediating your situation.

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Should I paint over mould?

No. Mould is an allergen and must be removed to rid the home or building of its effects.