Mold & Mildew; What Is Mold?; What Does Mold Need To Grow?; Consequences Of Mold - Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual

DIPLOMAT 2004
MOLD & MILDEW
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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 house-
keeping 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.
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR CARE