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Mold Facts
Mold, which has been part of the natural environment for several hundred million years, has recently become a matter of intense national concern, especially within the building industry. Construction of tighter buildings and inappropriate approaches to moisture control are often cited as contributing to the seemingly higher incidence of mold-associated problems being reported today. Another likely cause is increased awareness of mold due to extensive publicity surrounding a few cases of extreme mold contamination of buildings.
One thing that has not contributed to mold problems is the growing popularity of cellulose insulation among knowledgeable home owners who are interested in sustainable building practices and energy conservation. Mycology experts (mycology is the study of mold) are often quoted as saying: “Mold grows on cellulose.” They are referring to cellulose the generic material that forms the cell walls of all plants, not to cellulose insulation.
Unfortunately, all too often this statement is taken to mean that cellulose insulation is exceptionally susceptible to mold contamination. In fact, due to its favorable moisture control characteristics and other factors associated with the manufacturing process relatively few cases of significant mold growth on cellulose insulation have been reported. All the widely publicized incidents of serious mold contamination of insulation have involved fiber insulation materials other than cellulose.
For accurate, practical advice on preventing or curing mold problems from authoritative sources click the links below.
 Southface Journal Mold Article Reprint (PDF Format)
Mold Tips From the National Association of Home Builders
Mold Advice from the Engineered Wood Industry (PDF Format)
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