Monarch SE 2004----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Section 3 Exterior & Interior | 133
What is Mold?
Mold is a plant belonging to the Fungi group. In short, mold is a type of fungus
that occurs naturally in the environment, and is necessary for the natural decomposition
of plant and other organic material. Mold spreads by means of microscopic spores
borne on the wind, and is found everywhere life can be supported. Due to the fact
mold spores are present in all types of environments, motorhome construction is
not, and cannot be, designed to exclude mold spores. If the growing conditions are
right, mold can grow in the motorhome. Most people are familiar with mold
growth in the form of bread mold, and mold that may grow on bathroom tile.
Mold spores, as they grow, can leave a musty odor, discolor fabric, and stain
surfaces as well as cause considerable damage.
What Does Mold Need to Grow?
Being a plant, mold will need a food source in order to grow. Mold can use a
variety of organic materials such as fabric, carpet, wallpaper, or even building
materials, such as wood and insulation, to name a few. Grease films contain many
nutrients for mold spores to grow when moisture and temperatures are right. Soil
on dirty items such as fabrics and furniture may supply enough nutrients for mold
to grow. Many of the synthetic fabrics such as acetate, polyester, acrylic and nylon
are mildew resistant. However, soil on these fabrics may supply the nutrients to
start mold growth.
Mold growth requires a temperate climate. The best growth occurs at temperatures
between 40º F and 100º F. Finally, mold growth requires moisture. Moisture is a
mold growth factor that can be controlled. By minimizing moisture inside the
motorhome, mold growth can be reduced or eliminated.
Moisture in a motorhome can have many causes. Spills, leaks, overflows,
condensation, and high humidity, to name a few. Good housekeeping and regular
maintenance are essential in the effort to prevent or eliminate mold growth. If
moisture is allowed to remain on a growth medium, mold can develop within 24 to
48 hours.
Consequences of Mold:
All mold is not necessarily harmful, but certain strains of mold have been
shown to cause, in susceptible persons, allergic reactions, including skin irritation,
watery eyes, runny noise, coughing, sneezing, congestion, sore throat and
headache. Individuals with suppressed immune systems may risk infections. Some
experts contend that mold causes serious symptoms and disease which may even
be life threatening. However, experts disagree about the level of mold exposure
that may cause health problems, and about the exact nature and extent of the
health problems that may be caused by mold. Moreover, the Center for Disease
Control states that a casual link between the presence of toxic mold and serious
health conditions has not been proven.
MOLD & MILDEW
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