Molds (or moulds; see spelling differences) are fungi that grow in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. Molds are considered to be microbes but microscopic fungi that grow as single cells are called yeasts. A connected network of these tubular branching hyphae has multiple, genetically identical nuclei and is considered a single organism, referred to as a colony.
Yeast, mold, mildew and mushrooms are common forms of fungi. Mold is essentially a description of fungi that grows on surfaces, such as the black substance on a moldy shower wall. Mold and mildew often refer to the same type of fungi. All mold is fungi, but not all fungi is mold.
Although molds grow on dead organic matter everywhere in nature, their presence is only visible to the unaided eye when mold colonies grow. A mold colony does not comprise discrete organisms, but an interconnected network of hyphae called a mycelium. Nutrients and in some cases organelles may be transported throughout the mycelium. In artificial environments like buildings, humidity and temperature are often stable enough to foster the growth of mold colonies, commonly seen as a downy or furry coating growing on food or other surfaces.
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold.
A mold has long, thread-like strings of cells called hyphae. Hyphae form into a tangled mass called mycelium. The mycelium growth is the fuzzy stuff on bread. The strings that grow down into the bread are the mycelium, which is not seen. The whole fungus body is called a thallus. Spores are produced in large numbers. They are located on the hyphae. Some hyphae grow down into the food material. Cells of the hyphae produce chemicals. Those chemicals break down the material (fruit, paper, wood) into nutrients that the fungus can absorb.
Mold should not be permitted to grow indoors. Problems associated with mold have been around since recorded history. As we can read in the Bible, the method in dealing with mold has changed very little for thousands of years. Solving mold problems still requires fixing the source of moisture and removing any contaminated components. Dry items before mold grows, if possible. Mold can grow instantly if there is adequate temperature, moisture and nutrients provided.
To clean water-damaged window drapes, follow the manufacturer’s laundering or cleaning instructions. To clean wooden surfaces, remove moisture immediately and use dehumidifiers, fans and gentle heat to dry them. (Be very careful when applying heat to hardwood floors.) Treated or finished wood surfaces can be cleaned with mild detergent and clean water, then allowed to air-dry. Wet paneling should be pried from the wall for drying. Some water-damaged items, including ceiling tiles, cellulose and fiberglass insulation, drywall and gypsum board, and books and papers, may have to be discarded. If valuable or important books, documents or other items are moldy or water-damaged, consult a restoration, water-damage or remediation expert.
The Barrie Home Inspector uses his eyes and nose to detect traces of mould that may be present in the home. With the aid of Thermal Imaging and moisture meter he will investigate any signs of water intrusion into the home. Where there is moisture there will be mould. Mould can grow instantly and it is important to find and fix and moisture issues in the home.
Looking to find the best Commercial Building Inspector, then visit www.commercialbuildinginspector.ca to find the best advice on investment properties. Residential buyers can contact the The Barrie Home Inspector for all your residential property insepctions in Barrie, Alliston or Orillia.
Related posts:
- Mould Remediation – Tips for Taking out Mould
- What To Look For When Having Home Inspections Performed
- How to Minimise Window Condensation
- Dealing With Water Damage Restoration
- Resolving Water Damage At Home
- Always Get a Home Inspector
- Make your air quality better with a dehumidifier
- Which Mold Removal Product Should You Get For Your Home?
- Guide To Buy Best Dry Cleaner
- Preparing For Water Damage Restoration
Tags: barrie, drywall, fungi, growth, health, Home, Inspection, leaks, moisture, mold, mould, property, species, spores, water