Description

• Molds and mildews belong to the same kingdom of life as fungi and other microorganisms. No one is certain how many types of mold exists but it's easily in the thousands. Those varieties most commonly found causing problems for homeowners include cladosporium, penicillium, alternaria and aspergillus. Molds, like other fungi, cannot survive in the absence of moisture, but they do produce reproductive spores that can withstand extreme conditions and keep dormant until they find a suitable, damp spot to begin growing.
  
  

Inspection

• Typically, the homeowner does the initial mold inspection. If you've had any plumbing leaks, flooding or excessive humidity, these areas are a good place to begin your inspection. Mold can usually be easy to spot but sometimes there may be a hidden source. If you're having trouble locating the source of the mildew odor, continue to inspect and include areas behind paneling, wallpaper, under rugs or carpeting and even inside of a wall where a leak may have gone unchecked until now.
  
  

Testing

• While a visual inspection of your property is the first step, you may want to consider testing the air as well to determine what type and how much mold is present in your home's environment. Kentucky's Division for Air Quality website, however, warns, "Testing for mold is expensive, and you should have a clear reason for doing so. In addition, there are no standards for 'acceptable' levels of mold in the indoor environment." Mold testing kits are available at most home improvement stores.
  
  

Removal

• Depending on the scale of your mold problem, you may want to hire professional cleaners. Check with your homeowner's insurance to see if it will cover the costs. Alternatively, you can attempt the mold removal process yourself. Once you've discovered the cause of the moisture or leaking, the first step is to remedy that situation. Otherwise, the mold is likely to return after you've cleaned. Clean all affected surfaces with mild detergent and be sure to let everything dry out completely. A diluted bleach solution can also be effective.
  
  

Safety

• There are respirators available at hardware and home improvement stores that are advisable to use if you are going to be removing mold from your home. Gloves and safety goggles are also advised. Be certain the respirator fits properly and the goggles do not have any openings in them for maximum protection. If you are using harsh chemicals or cleaners, make sure to keep the area well ventilated while you work.