Mold is a part of our natural environment and is not always hazardous. Outside of the home, mold works in harmony with nature by assisting in the decomposing of dead natural matter such as dead trees and leaves. However, inside the home mold growth is undesirable. Mold reproduces by way of very small spores. These spores are too small to be detected by the naked eye as they drift through the air. Mold may start to grow inside the home or structure whenever mold spores come in contact with moist surfaces. There are numerous varieties of mold, all of which require moisture to grow.

Just because you notice mold on one of the surfaces within your home does not automatically mean that the mold is toxic, or that it will need to be professionally removed. In fact, most mold is non-toxic and only poses minimal health risks such as allergic reactions. On the other hand, some types of mold are indeed dangerous, which is why mold inspection and testing are recommended when homeowners notice mold either visually or detect it by smell.