NAHB Actions

Home builders care about the people who buy the homes we build and as an industry we are always striving to improve and build homes that are affordable, safe, energy efficient and comfortable. We take seriously any issue that could have an impact on consumer satisfaction with new homes.

To keep members current on critical issues, NAHB publishes research materials and also develops educational programs. Almost 40 years ago, NAHB founded the not-for-profit NAHB Research Center, one of the premier institutions in the country devoted to applied science research on building technologies, materials and products.

NAHB Vice President and Secretary Bobby Rayburn has directed NAHB staff and the NAHB Research Center to study the causes of mold in residential construction, appropriate preventative maintenance, proven clean-up methods and remediation resources.

The NAHB Research Center has published information on the causes of mold, health issues, prevention and clean-up guidelines, as well as a list of resources developed by outside organizations such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control. “Mold in Residential Buildings” is available on the Research Center Web site, www.nahbrc.org.

The NAHB Research Center provides ToolBase Services - a resource for technical information on building products, materials, new technologies, business management and housing systems – to NAHB members and the public. ToolBase is collecting information on mold problems and providing information to builders and consumers on the prevention and clean up of mold

The Science of Mold

We do not believe that most homeowners have to worry about the structural integrity of their homes or worry about becoming ill from mold in their homes.

Mold spores are everywhere in indoor and outdoor environments and people are exposed to airborne spores daily, making it practically impossible to avoid mold spores unless people stay indoors in a sterilized environment.

Molds need three favorable conditions to grow: a temperature range between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit; a food source such as wood, paper or other organic material; and moisture.

Attention to excessive moisture, such as persistent condensation on windows in the winter, hygiene practices and proper maintenance can control mold growth and minimize exposure to mold spores.

New homes today are very energy efficient – they use 50 percent less energy than houses built in the early 1970s. Energy-efficient construction usually includes air sealing the building envelope to reduce outdoor air infiltration. To maintain a safe level of moisture, homeowners may need to remove, reduce or ventilate moisture sources. However, homeowners should follow the instructions in the home maintenance manual they received from their builder.

Dealing with Mold Problems

The most practical approach to limit mold growth is early detection and prompt resolution of excessive moisture. If a homeowner can see mold or detect an earthy or musty odor, it can be assumed that there is a moisture problem that must be resolved to stop mold growth.

The NAHB Research Center has published a primer on mold that references several guidelines for preventing mold growth and for cleaning up mold. The information is available at www.nahbrc.org.

State health agencies and other experts do not recommend testing as a first step to determine if there is a mold problem. Mold sampling can be expensive and requires special equipment and trained technicians to acquire reliable samples and test results. Also, there is no consensus on a single standard for judging what is an acceptable level of mold.

If a homeowner decides to have their home tested, contracting services with a qualified laboratory and technician are recommended. Additional information on qualifications homeowners should look for is available at www.nahbrc.org.

Consumers may contact the NAHB Research Center ToolBase Hotline at (800) 898-2842, or at toolbase@nahbrc.org for questions about mold prevention and clean-up.

Health Issues

Mold is everywhere in the environment and people are exposed to it every day. Health effects depend upon the type and amount of mold to which a person is exposed to and the sensitivity of the person exposed. Some individuals do not experience a reaction after mold exposure, while others with a sensitivity to mold may experience an allergic reaction. People with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to infections by mold.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control, there is very little scientific evidence linking “toxic” molds with human illness, particularly considering the low levels of exposure in most homes.

Homeowners should not overreact if they discover mold in their homes. However, any mold in the home should be treated seriously and homeowners should ace immediately at the first signs of mold or excessive moisture. Removal of mold can only be successful when the moisture source is resolved.