🦠 Mold Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

No one wants mold in their home—and for good reason. Mold can damage property, reduce indoor air quality, and cause serious health problems if left untreated. Learning the facts about mold helps you protect your home and your health.

At Quality Environmental Testing Inc., our certified professionals use industry-leading equipment and send all mold samples to a trusted third-party laboratory for unbiased, accurate results. Whether you’re concerned about visible mold or hidden growth, we’re here to help you understand and address the issue.

🔍 16 Surprising Mold Facts to Help You Stay Ahead

1. Mold Is Everywhere

Mold is part of the natural world and helps decompose organic material. Indoors, tiny mold spores float through the air and settle on surfaces. When they land on damp areas—like around leaks or poorly ventilated bathrooms—they can begin to grow and spread quickly.

2. There Are Over 100,000 Species of Mold

Most mold types are harmless and found outdoors. However, several species commonly found inside homes can be harmful to health, including:

• Cladosporium

• Aspergillus

• Penicillium

• Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mold)

• Alternaria

3. Mold Grows on More Than Just Walls

Mold thrives on porous and organic materials like:

• Drywall

• Wood

• Carpet

• Insulation Even non-porous materials like metal or concrete can support mold if dust or organic debris is present.

4. Mold Can Grow in Just 24 to 48 Hours

After water damage, mold growth can begin in as little as one to two days. Mold needs:

• Moisture

• Organic material (like wood or paper)

• Temperatures between 77°F – 88°F

Quick cleanup and professional moisture assessment are essential to prevent growth.

5. Painting Over Mold Won’t Stop It

Painting over mold just hides the problem temporarily. Mold will grow right back through the paint. Proper remediation is required to completely remove mold before any painting or repairs.

6. Christmas Trees Can Carry Mold

Live trees, wreaths, and greenery can carry mold spores indoors. Combined with indoor heat and moisture, these spores can grow quickly.Tips to reduce holiday mold exposure:

• Rinse live trees outside before bringing them in

• Use a HEPA air purifier nearby

• Consider artificial trees if allergies are a concern

7. Bleach Doesn’t Eliminate Mold

Bleach only kills surface-level mold. It does not penetrate porous materials like wood or drywall, and can actually worsen mold regrowth if overused. Instead, use a detergent-and-water mix—or call a professional for large areas.

8. Homeowners Insurance Rarely Covers Mold

Most insurance policies exclude mold unless it's the result of a sudden, covered event (e.g., a burst pipe). Mold from slow leaks, humidity, or poor maintenance is usually not covered.💡 Tip: Maintain plumbing and address leaks promptly to protect your home and insurance coverage.

9. Mold Comes in All Colors

Mold can be:

• Green

• Black

• White

• Orange

• YellowColor alone does not determine toxicity, so even harmless-looking mold can cause problems. Lab testing is the only way to know what you’re dealing with.

10. Mold Can Trigger Health Issues

Exposure to mold may cause:

• Allergies

• Sinus infections

• Asthma attacks

• Skin rashes

• Fatigue and headaches Children, elderly individuals, and people with respiratory or immune issues are especially vulnerable.

11. Mold Grows Using Hyphae

Mold spreads through microscopic filaments called hyphae, which form a larger network called mycelium. These structures allow mold to grow deep into walls, floors, and ceilings—often far beyond what’s visible.

12. Mold Cells Are Built Differently

Unlike plants, mold doesn’t use sunlight to make energy. Instead, it feeds on organic material. Mold cell walls are made of chitin, the same material found in insect shells—making them extremely durable.

13. Mold Is a Natural Decomposer

In nature, mold helps recycle nutrients by breaking down dead plants and animals. But indoors, this “helpful” function can destroy building materials and furnishings if left unchecked.

14. Some Molds Release Toxins

Certain species, like Stachybotrys chartarum, produce mycotoxins—harmful compounds that can cause neurological and immune system issues. These toxins can be inhaled or absorbed through skin contact.

15. Mold Can Cause Infections

People with weakened immune systems are at risk of fungal infections from mold exposure. Serious infections like aspergillosis can develop if mold is inhaled deeply into the lungs.

16. Regular Mold Inspections Are a Must

The best way to prevent a major mold problem? Routine inspections.

• Check basements, crawl spaces, and attics

• Watch for leaks around plumbing and roofs

• Address humidity issues with ventilation or dehumidifiers

At Quality Environmental Testing Inc., our experts conduct thorough mold assessments and send all samples to a third-party certified laboratory for accurate analysis. You get unbiased, science-backed results—not guesswork.

🛠️ Need Professional Mold Testing? We’re Here to Help

Whether you’ve experienced water damage, have musty odors, or just want peace of mind, Quality Environmental Testing Inc. offers:

• Professional mold testing

• Certified inspectors

• Third-party lab verification

• Comprehensive indoor air quality assessments

📞 Contact us today 708-473-0796 to schedule your mold inspection or request a quote. Don’t wait until mold takes over—detect it early and stop it for good.