Mold: Sources of Moisture

Description

Mold: Sources of Moisture

Image: Property of UNC CEHS COEC

Big Idea: It is important to identify the sources of moisture that can allow mold growth in a home.

Talking points:

• The ideal settings for mold growth include:
  • moisture;
  • a surface where mold can grow, such as wet paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood; and
  • warm temperatures.
• There are many common, even everyday sources of moisture in homes, like taking a shower, cooking, and naturally occurring water vapor from soil.
• Other sources of mold occur when some type of repair or maintenance is needed in the home, including a leaking pipe or roof, clogged gutters, or window condensation.

Source: 
David Lipton, NCDHHS Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, “Update: Managing Citizen Inquiries about Dampness and Mold Growth”