Mold is a type of fungus that consists of small organisms found almost everywhere. They can be black, white, orange, green, or purple. Outdoors, molds play an important role in nature, breaking down dead leaves, plants, and trees. Molds thrive on moisture and reproduce by means of tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. You’re exposed to mold every day. In small amounts, mold spores are usually harmless, but when they land on a damp spot in your home, they can start to grow. When mold is growing on a surface, spores can be released into the air where they can be easily inhaled. If you're sensitive to mold and inhale a large number of spores, you could experience health problems. Some molds create myotoxins that can be involved in health issues if they come in contact with the skin or are ingested.

Mold requires food, moisture and a broad temperature range to grow and thrive. Mold is nature’s means of getting rid of dead organic material. Mold can feed on paper, cardboard, wood, ceiling tiles, wallpaper paste, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery. If water or moisture, even in small amounts, intrude into the cleanest house or office, naturally occurring mold will settle and grow. Many mold issues are caused by unseen leaking pipes, soffit issues, and poorly graded landscaping. You do not have to have a flood to have a moisture problem. Moisture problems left untreated for as little as 48 hours can be the beginning of potentially serious mold issues.

The health issues associated with mold can be caused by both live AND dead mold. Killing mold is not enough. Mold must be removed.