Mould doesn't need a lot of nutrients to live. It needs humidity to develop. Maintaining its relative humidity at more than 50% and keeping materials moist for too long can promote mould growth. Mould generally thrives in temperatures around 25°C, but some thrive at much lower or much higher temperatures. Mould can grow well on cellulose-based materials (paper, cardboard, plasterboard, wood) because it feeds on organic matter inside these materials, but it is also able to grow on the surface of plastic, glass, concrete, and other materials if the environment is favorable (presence of dust on the surface). Mould does not discriminate. It can be found in the plants in your house, in your textiles, and in your food. Mould is present in all houses to varying degrees.

Mold is spread by the spores it releases into the air (which are its means of reproduction). You can think of mold like tiny white dandelion which releases its seeds with parachutes. Like dandelion seeds, spores can move on air currents to spread through the air to find a place to grow.

On the other hand, if there is mold on a wall in the basement, it will not necessarily extend all the way to the first floor. The air quality on the ground floor could be affected, but mold will not necessarily grow, especially if there is no moisture present.

They are chemicals that are produced by moulds (microscopic fungi). Basically, moulds generate mycotoxins to defend their territory against other organisms in their environment. These toxins can cause symptoms in the occupants of spaces with mould contamination. A mould can generate different mycotoxins.

For example, Aspergillus fumigatus generates more than 8 different toxins. This mould, like many others of the Aspergillus type, is also a mould that can lodge and develop in the lungs, causing a disease called aspergillosis.

Molds have an impressive array of colors that varies depending on their species, stage of development, etc. They are not limited to brown or black as commonly thought, but can be white, beige, purple, blue, and even pink. They usually have a fibrous appearance and can even look like dust on a wall (small circles).

No. Just because there is mould on a wall doesn't necessarily mean there is contamination in the air. If the materials are not moved, if the vacuum cleaner has not just been used, there may be no mould contamination in the air. This depends on the affected area. An air quality test can detect the presence of air contamination. In addition, our comprehensive service allows us to define the severity of the problem, and provide the necessary procedures to remedy the problem.

If it is present, there is a visible or hidden problem creating it (source of infiltration, presence of mold, rotten wood, etc.). Likewise, moisture has no odor. What creates the "damp" smell are usually the bacteria, yeasts and molds found. They can give off odorous chemicals (microbial volatile organic compounds, C.O.V.M.). If there is an odor caused by the presence of organic growths, it is possible that the air quality is affected. An air quality inspection will help you see more clearly.