Glossary

When mold spores have been disturbed, agitated or have dried out they can become airborne.  Mold spores are considered to be ‘aerosolized” when they become airborne.

An allergen is any substance that can cause an allergic reaction in people or animals.

Alternaria is one of the most commonly found species of mold.  It is most commonly found outdoors (plants and in soil) but can be found indoors on carpets and window sills.

An agent or type of disinfectant used to kill or inhibit growth of micro organisms such as mold or mold related bacteria.

One of the most common molds’ found everywhere.  The species will grow on almost anything. Aspergillius is a genus of Fungi containing over 150 species’ of mold.

A living organism, such as mold or mold related bacteria’s that are harmful to people and/or animals.

“Black Mold” is a term usually used to describe Stachybotrys Chartarum.  The colour of the mold does not necessarily mean that the species of mold is Stachybotrys.

A type of surface sampling method used to test for mold.  This test requires a small portion of materials (representative of the area of concern) to be removed and sent to a laboratory for testing.  This testing can be invasive depending on what needs to be tested (ie. removal of carpet sample or drywall).

The most common spore type reported in the air worldwide.  Cladisporium is usually found on plants, soil, wood, drywall, leather, fabrics etc….

Mold that is not visible.  Mostly found inside wall cavities where water damage or moisture problems persist.

Representative of a “normal” environment where the presence of mold/fungus is considered to be within a reasonable tolerance level. This is usually reflective of an environment that has not had any significant water issues or other events that would cause mold growth.

Represents an environment where there may be no visible signs of mold however through air testing it is determined that an elevated level of mold spores are found in the environment.  The presence of increased mold spores could be as a result of spores entering the environment directly (concealed mold due to water damage issue) or indirectly (cross contamination).

Represents environments where visible mold growth can be seen growing, or dormant in a concealed space.

Represents environments where visible mold growth can be seen growing, or dormant in a concealed space.

Used to remove moisture out of the air.  There are many different types of dehumidifiers available on the market with a variety of features.

A white powdery substance sometimes found on foundation walls or rocks.  This occurs when there is water pressure or water seeping through foundation walls causing the natural salts and minerals to appear.

Fungi is the “domain” under which mold species find themselves classified under the scientific classification hierarchy.   Mold is a type of fungus.

HEPA – High Efficiency Particulate Air or Arrestance. This term is usually used in reference to a type of filter (ie. air filter, vacuum filter).

A device used to put water (humidity) back into the environment.

HVAC – Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning.  This term is usually used in reference to the heating/cooling system found in buildings/homes.

A device used to measure relative humidity (the amount of moisture in the air).