Why is mold a bigger problem today than 20 years ago?
New construction methods and materials were developed to comply with Title 24 of the United States Code of Federal Regulations (1978), focusing on energy conservation. The new building methods and construction materials do not allow buildings to ventilate, or breathe, as freely as before. The result is that moisture vapor can become trapped if sufficient ventilation systems are not in place, providing the basis for mold growth. When a house is built on a concrete slab, the concrete emits moisture depending upon surrounding conditions. Concrete slabs are porous, allowing moisture present in the soil beneath the slab to migrate into the living area above. Legal issues attributed to mold are now in the news more than ever before. Owners selling or renting properties are being held responsible for not informing tenants as to possible mold problems. Mold can grow from minor water problems as simple as wet indoor plant baskets or wet laundry hung indoors to larger problems such as plumbing f
