Safari motorhome TREK 2005, Instructions Manual

Page: 117 / 330

TREK 2005 Exterior & Interior Care --- Section 3 • 117
MOLD & MILDEW
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that occurs naturally in the environment. Mold spreads by means of micro-
scopic spores borne on the wind, and is found everywhere life can be supported. Motorhome construction
is not, and cannot be, designed to exclude mold spores. If the conditions are right, mold can grow in the
motorhome. Most people are familiar with mold growth in the form of bread mold, and mildew that may
grow on bathroom tile. Mold spores, as they grow, can leave a musty odor, discolor fabrics, stain surfaces,
and cause considerable damage.
What Does Mold Need to Grow?
Mold requires a food source to grow. Grease films contain nutrients to cultivate mold spores. Soil on
items such as fabrics and furniture may also supply nutrients for mold growth. Synthetic fabrics, such as
acetate, polyester, acrylic and nylon, are mildew resistant, but soil on the surface of these fabrics are
susceptible to mold.
Temperate climate and moisture help to cultivate mold growth. Moisture in the motorhome can result
from unattended spills, leaks, overflows, and condensation. Moisture allowed to remain on a growth
medium can develop mold within 24 to 48 hours. Minimizing moisture inside of the motorhome can
reduce or eliminate favorable mold growth conditions. Good housekeeping and regular maintenance are
essential in the effort to prevent or eliminate mold growth.
Consequences of Mold:
All mold is not necessarily harmful, but certain strains of mold have been shown to cause, in
susceptible persons, allergic reactions, including skin irritation, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing,
sneezing, congestion, sore throat and headache. Individuals with suppressed immune systems may risk
infections. Some experts contend that mold causes serious symptoms and disease which may even be life
threatening. However, experts disagree about the level of mold exposure that may cause health problems,
and about the exact nature and extent of the health problems that mold may cause. Moreover, the Center
for Disease Control states that a casual link between the presence of toxic mold and serious health
conditions has not been proven.
Standards or threshold limit values for concentration of mold or mold spores have not been set.
Currently, there are no EPA regulations or standards for airborne mold contaminants. There is simply
no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. For example, studies
have shown that ozone cleaners are not effective at killing airborne mold or surface mold contamination.