The rainy season in Oregon can often trigger growth of household mold, an all-too-common nuisance that can actually be quite dangerous to those with allergies or asthma. Experts note that keeping the damp out of your home is the key to limiting the onset of mold.

Hal Nauman, environmental health specialist with Clatsop County Health and Human Services, noted that the state's coastal regions are more at risk for mold growth. "Because of the dampness of this area, we have more incidences than in eastern Oregon," he said. "We see all kinds of mold, but the black mold that you find in the back of your closet is probably the most common."

Nauman explained that the type of mold growing in a home is not as relevant as the reason behind its emergence.
"We don't think about the species of mold, we question why is there mold?" he explained.

Pinpointing the source of the moisture necessary for mold to flourish is the first task when addressing a burgeoning problem.

"The first problem to solve is to eliminate the reason for the dampness, and for some houses and apartments that can be an expensive chore," he said.

Flooding, leaking water pipes or fixtures, faulty drain plumbing, leaky roofs, extensive use of hot water indoors without adequate ventilation, damp basements or crawlspaces, indoor clothes drying, unvented combustion appliances and poorly insulated windows are all sources of indoor moisture that can encourage mold growth. Exterior walls that are poorly insulated can also yield mold growth.

Homes have to be constructed properly, ventilated properly and heated properly to curb mold. Nauman said that flame-based heat from a fireplace or gas furnace is the best way to dry air and limit mold.

Nauman indicated that landlords have limited responsibility when it comes to small outbreaks of mold. Under "Repairs" in landlord-tenant law in Oregon, it addresses ventilation, waterproofing and weather protection and safety/cleanliness of a unit. But it does not specifically address mold.

Getting rid of mold once it has started to develop can be a challenge, Nauman indicated.

"There are some things you can do, but you have to do them over and over. It's hard to get rid of, but you can keep it at bay," Nauman said.

According to the Oregon Department of Human Service, molds cannot grow on dry materials even if all other conditions are conducive for mold growth. Conversely, mold and mildew cannot be controlled where moist materials exist. Growing colonies of mold can be killed by applying a strong solution of water and bleach—1 1/2 cup per gallon of water. However, if the material remains damp, the mold will grow back quickly. Be sure to wear gloves and long sleeves when dealing with mold.

Mold is a microscopic organism that is common in the air when it is in spore form. The spores settle and germinate to create a mold colony when conditions are good. Molds cause staining, decomposition and a musty odor. When a colony gets extensive, it will produce spores that can be problematic to those who are sensitive. Coughing and cold-like symptoms may be the result of mold. While serious mold-related illnesses are rare, you should contact a physician if you think you are ill from mold in your home.

http://www.seasidesignal.com/articles/2006/10/26/news/local_news/doc4540daf91ed0e578425819.txt


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