Discovering mold can be unsettling. It often indicates a hidden moisture problem and can pose risks to your indoor air quality. Mold isn't just unsightly; it can impact your health and damage your property. At Pacific Water Restoration, we provide professional, IICRC-certified mold remediation services to restore a healthy environment.

Mold is a type of fungus which also includes yeasts and mushrooms. Molds are microscopic organisms that are a natural and vital part of our outdoor environment. Their primary role in nature is to break down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves, dead trees, and other decaying debris.

While mold spores are everywhere, they only become a problem when they land on a surface that provides the necessary conditions for growth.

Mold needs four key elements to grow:

1. Moisture: Mold cannot grow without water or high humidity. This is why water damage is the primary precursor to indoor mold growth. Any source of unchecked moisture, whether from a leak, flood, condensation, or high indoor humidity, provides the essential ingredients for mold to thrive. Mold can begin to grow within 3-7 days.

2. Food Source: Molds feed on organic matter. Unfortunately, many common building materials and household items serve as excellent food sources for mold that include:

*Wood (framing, subflooring)

*Paper (drywall paper facing, wallpaper, books, cardboard)

*Fabric (carpet, upholstery, clothing)

*Dust, dirt, and food particles


3. Oxygen: Mold needs oxygen to survive, which is readily available in the air.

4. Temperature: Most molds prefer temperatures between 60F - 80F, which falls within the typical range for indoor environments.

When spores land on a damp surface that has food and oxygen available, and the temperature is suitable, they will begin to germinate and form new mold colonies.

While some molds, like penicillin, are beneficial, their uncontrolled growth indoors is undesirable for several reasons.

*Health Impacts: Mold can produce allergens, irritants, and sometimes mycotoxins. Exposure can lead to a variety of health effects, varying based on the type of mold, the extent and duration of exposure, and individual sensitivities. Common symptoms include:

*Allergic reactions-Sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rashes

*Respiratory Issues -Coughing,wheezing, shortness of breath, asthma attacks in sensitive individuals

*Infections- rare and primarily in people with severely compromised immune systems

*Headaches, fatigue, insomnia, nasal congestion, throat irritation

Mold digests the organic materials it grows on, leading to damage. Over time, it can weaken structural components, destroy drywall, stain surfaces, and permanently ruin contents like furniture, carpets, and clothing.

Mold growth often produces a distinct, musty, earthy odor due to microbial volatile organic compounds which can be irritating to the respiratory system.

Mold frequently grows in concealed spaces (behind walls, under flooring, in attics and crawl spaces) where moisture is present but not visible, making it difficult to detect until the problem is significant or odors become apparent.

In summery, mold is a natural fungus that requires moisture to grow. When it colonizes inside of indoor environments, it can lead to health issues, property damage, and unpleasant odors. Effective mold remediation relies on understanding these basic principles and, most importantly, identifying and resolving the underlying moisture problem.