MOLD

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*The Health Department does not test for or do assessments for mold*

Q. How do I know if I have mold?

Indicators of high indoor humidity
Musty smell
Visible white or black mold on indoor surfaces (windows, walls, closets, or behind furniture).

*Mold grows in an environment of high humidity (moisture in the air)*

Q. Why might there be high humidity in my home?

Moisture directly from occupants (a family of 3-4 can add 3 gallons of water to the air in one day.)
Occupant-related household activities (e.g. cooking, etc.)
Moisture from combustible sources (e.g. gas cooking stove, etc.)
Drying of wet construction materials
Moisture from basements, crawl spaces, or concrete floor slabs
Water leaks (e.g. plumbing, roofs, windows, etc.)

*The key to mold control is moisture control*

Q. How can I control moisture?

Q. What should I do if my house or apartment floods?

Moisture or water from flooding, plumbing leaks, and roof leaks will start mold growth
Start drying process as soon as possible
Open windows
Extensive water damage often requires experienced professional
Carpets that are not dried within 24-48 hours should be removed and discarded
Replace moldy drywall.

Q. How can I get my house tested for mold?

Consult the Yellow Pages or Internet. There are no local testing companies.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DO-IT-YOURSELF MOLD CLEANUP

Follow EPA guidelines (see link at the bottom of the page)
Scrub mold inside the home with a soap solution
Rinse with plain water and dry
Molds are allergenic whether dead or alive, so mold must be removed, not just killed
Bleach alone does not remove allergens
Replace exterior and interior water-damaged materials.

For additional information please see the links below:

Or contact Jeanne Brandt: 503-821-1117, jeanne.brandt@oregonstate.edu.

Last updated 08/04/2009 11:19 AM