There are several health risks involved with having a mold infestation in your home. Some of them include headaches, fatigue and throat irritation. But extreme cases of exposure could result in significant respiratory problems that children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to. Because there are so many ways mold can affect a family and appear in a home, it's important to have as much information as possible. 

Just the word mold has the power to induce anxiety in homeowners or people with family members and loved ones who are especially sensitive to respiratory irritants. But knowing what you're dealing with when mold is found in the house may be the most important step in laying out a plan to deal with it effectively.

Here are a few facts to consider when dealing with mold in the home: 

• Mold is a fungus which, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), is so prevalent that it is impossible not to be exposed to some level of it.
• It has existed for at least 400 million years and grows both inside and outside of homes, only needing warmth, moisture and a source of food to survive.
• Kitchens, bathrooms and basements are the most likely places where mold will appear in a home, along with walls that are covering leaky pipes.
• The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) says that mold can grow in just two days if the right room-temperature conditions are in place. 
• Mold spores can't be completely removed from your home but regular cleaning is an excellent way to keep their presence to a minimum. 

If you live in the Virginia or Washington, D.C., area and are interested in learning more about mold infestations or in having a home inspection for mold, contact industry-leader Alban Inspections and schedule an appointment today!