Myth: Dead mold is not a risk

Dead Mold

Allergic reactions to mold are caused by the coating on the surface of mold spores. One square inch of infected material (e.g. wallboard or wood) can contain from 1 to 10 million mold spores! When you attempt to kill mold, intentionally or simply when the source of moisture is eliminated, mold releases its spores in the air to find a new place to colonize. Even though the mold is dead, the coating on the spores will still cause allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, sore throat, etc.

It is not only necessary to kill the mold, but also remove it in a manner which does not cause aerosolization of the spores (containment, negative air pressure, etc). Of course, some infected materials such as drywall, cardboard, carpet, padding, upholstered furniture must be completely removed and disposed of in a
safe manner.