Home Seller's Guide by Cynthia Rich

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT MOLD?

FACTS ABOUT MOLD Molds are simple, microscopic organisms whose purpose in the ecosystem is to break down dead materials. Molds can be found on plants, dry leaves and almost every other organic material. Some molds are useful, such as those used to make antibiotics and cheese. Some molds are known to be highly toxic when ingested, such as the types that invade grains and peanuts. Most of the mold found indoors comes from outdoors.

Molds reproduce by very tiny particles called spores. The spores float in on the air currents and find a suitable growing spot. Spores are very light and can travel on air currents. If mold spores land on a suitable surface, they will begin to grow. Molds need three things to thrive - moisture, food and a surface to grow on. Molds can be seen throughout the house and can be found in most bathrooms. Mold growth can often be seen in discoloration and can appear in many colors - white, orange, pink, blue, green, black or brown. When molds are present in large quantities (called colonies), they can cause health problems in some people.

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