Excessive moisture generating activities will contribute to raise indoor relative humidity above 70% which is ideal for mold growth. Even when exterior water sources are minimized, moisture in the indoor air can build up from poorly vented combustion appliances, showers, cooking, laundry, people breathing in the home, etc. Damp unventilated basements are perfect breeding grounds for mold spores - excess moisture, food supply, and stagnant air. That is why the basement is often musty, malodorous, and uncomfortable.

Mold spores are prevalent in both indoor and outdoor air, and spread easily. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths when they find the right conditions.

They only need a few things to grow and multiply: 
Moisture
Moisture keeps them chemically active.  
Nutrients
Feed on plant and animal material, but not on dry matter.  
Suitable environment
Warm temperature and stagnant air. 

Indoor mold growth is potentially harmful to: 
Individuals
Exposure to molds can adversely affect the health of people by causing allergy symptoms,
respiratory difficulties and other ailments.
Structures
Mold activity in wood causes rot, buckling of beams.  
Contents
Can destroy furniture and clothing .

Controlling excess moisture is the key to reducing the favorable environment for indoor mold growth!

There are various strategies to control moisture: 
Ventilation
Movement of air does not allow for air to stagnate, and discourages the migration of interior humidity into the wall cavities. 
Dilution
Exchange of interior moisture laden air with fresher less humid air.  
Source control
Indoor air - fix water leaks, reduce moisture from domestic activities Outdoor- improving drainage, waterproofing.  
Dehumidification
Dehumidification removes moisture from a space.

 

 Moisture Causes Sickening Musty Odors & Ugly Mildew  
 
 
 
Just because you don't see molds growing in your home doesn't mean that they're not there.
Musty odors are caused by mold growth, and you may be smelling and breathing them in daily.
  • Unpleasant musty odors may cause headaches, nausea and bring on asthmatic symptons. 
  • Musty odors are evident and mildew grows and thrives where air is moist, warm and stagnant.
  • Chemical mildew removers are toxic to people and animals.
  • Mildew leaves ugly, black stains which will rot fabric,leather and paper.
  • Musty odors indicate mold growth.