What does toxic mold and black mold need to grow?
For toxic mold and black mold to grow, it needs: • food sources – such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt • a source of moisture • a place to grow Can toxic mold and black mold become a problem in my home? Yes, if there is moisture available to allow mold to thrive and multiply. The following are sources of indoor moisture that may cause problems: • flooding • backed-up sewers • leaky roofs • humidifiers • mud or ice dams • damp basement or crawl spaces • constant plumbing leaks • house plants – watering can generate large amounts of moisture • steam from cooking • shower/bath steam and leaks • wet clothes on indoor drying lines • clothes dryers vented indoors • combustion appliances (e.g. stoves) not exhausted to the outdoors CAUTION: If you see moisture condensation on the windows or walls, it is also possible that you have a combustion problem in your home. It is important to have sufficient fresh air available for fuel burning appliances, such as the furnace, water heater, stove/range