What is Mold?

Molds can be found in every environment throughout the world, including here in Indiana. Like mushrooms, many kinds of wood rot, and mildew; mold is part of the Fungi Kingdom. Outdoors, molds provide a valuable service to our planet by breaking down dead plant materials along with other microscopic organisms. Molds reproduce through the release of spores into their environments. These spores settle on surfaces and, if conditions are right, amplify into large colonies. Mold gradually destroys whatever it is growing on and so eliminating visible mold growth within building structures is important to protect building materials from deterioration. While additional research is needed to get a clear picture of the health problems associated with mold exposure, It is still prudent to avoid exposure to mold within indoor environments.