Mold Web Course/Chapter 2/Lesson 1

Mold Web Course
the Environmental Protection Agency
Lesson 1: Introduction to Mold Growth
4197341Mold Web Course — Lesson 1: Introduction to Mold Growththe Environmental Protection Agency

Lesson 1Introduction to Mold Growth

Mold can grow on virtually any organic material as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that grow on wood, paper, carpet, food, and insulation. Because mold eats or digests what it is growing on, it can damage a building and its furnishings. If left unchecked, mold eventually can cause structural damage to building materials.

Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on. You can prevent damage to buildings and building contents, save money, and avoid potential health problems by controlling moisture and eliminating mold growth.

Eliminating all mold and mold spores indoors is virtually impossible, but controlling indoor moisture will control the growth of indoor mold.