SACRAMENTO - Due to excessive rainfall this winter and the inability of building materials to dry out between storms, some California residents are finding mold in unusual places in their homes. Mold grows where water or water vapor is present, and though it is common to have small amounts of black mold (mildew) growing on shower or bath tiles in homes, many residents are now recognizing mold growing on window frames and sills, along baseboards and walls, or in carpets.

"There are hundreds of different types of mold and fungi that can grow indoors, and they come in many different colors, including white, pink, orange, brown, and black," said State Health Officer James W. Stratton, M.D. M.P.H. "Almost all molds are known to produce substances or volatile chemicals that emit a characteristic odor that can cause allergies or make them worse. Molds can also irritate the eyes, nose, or throat."

There is a wide range of susceptibility among people to the allergic and irritant effects of mold. Persons with a history of allergic reactions, asthma, or other long-term respiratory conditions are more likely to experience symptoms such as watery and itchy eyes, sore throat, cough, nasal or sinus congestion, or headache when living or working in areas where visible mold is present, or where moldy odors indicate the presence of hidden fungal contamination. It is unhealthy and inadvisable for anyone to live or work in a moldy indoor environment.

"We recommend that California residents use the safest and most practical measures to rid their homes of mold," added Dr. Stratton.

It is generally unnecessary to identify what type of mold is growing in a home before taking steps to remove it. In addition, it is costly to test mold to determine exactly what type of mold is present. Therefore, the department suggests that small areas of mold (less than two square feet) on solid surfaces such as walls, baseboards, and window frames be cleaned with the following procedure:

• prepare a solution of one cup of household bleach for every gallon of water;

• wear protective clothing, such as rubber gloves and a long-sleeved shirt;

• provide good ventilation by opening windows or using a portable fan;

• apply the bleach solution to the moldy area gently with a sponge or mop -- a spray applicator is not recommended as it can cause the mold spores to become airborne and spread to other locations. (Be aware that bleach may damage rugs, fabrics, and wallpaper);

• allow the bleach solution to stay in contact with the surface for fifteen minutes, then rinse the area with clean water; and

• ensure that the treated area dries out because molds will re-grow if surfaces remain damp.

If your home has large areas of mold growth, it is advisable to make an appointment with a professional contractor who can determine where moisture is coming from and how the problem can be corrected. The removal of large areas of mold should be done by individuals with special training, such as restoration specialists or asbestos abatement contractors, to prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the home. Check your local phone directory for contractors that provide such services. In addition, renters should immediately contact their landlord if mold growth appears in any part of the home. It is important that moldy areas in a home be identified, underlying water intrusion problems be corrected, and mold removed to protect the health of California residents.

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