Molds are fungi that grow in different shapes, sizes and colors. They also tend to be fuzzy in appearance. Mold is natural and is important for the normal function of the environment, as it breaks down dead and decaying material. However, when mold grows indoors it can cause health and structural problems.
Mildew is a fungi that can cause damage to plants and crops. Mildew grows in a flat pattern and may look powdery.
Download a brief fact sheet here.
Mold can cause:
Mold requires oxygen, moisture and a food source (wood, paper and certain glues found in building materials). While you cannot prevent mold spores from coming inside your home, you can prevent mold from growing. If you see mold, that indicates you have a moisture problem. See below for ways to identify the source of the moisture.
We do not recommend testing for mold. If you have mold, you should remove it, using the steps listed below. For large areas of mold, you may need to call in specialists to safely remove the mold.
Mold and Mildew PreventionFind and control the moisture source
Increase ventilation
How to clean the mold and mildew
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The following information is only relevant for Oregon residents. Out of state residents should contact their own Building Codes Division. All information in from the Oregon Building Codes Division.
Kitchen exhaust can be in the form of a hood or down draft appliance and are required to be vented to the exterior to remove moisture and other byproducts from the cooking process. Link to ORSC CH 15
Bathroom requirements vary depending on the configuration. Half baths are required to have either natural (window) or mechanical (exhaust fan) ventilation. Bathrooms with bathing facilities are required to have an exhaust fan with a timer that can be intermittent or continuous exhaust Link to ORSC CH 15 Link Link to ORSC CH 3
The installation of new or replacement exhaust fan or exhaust duct requires a permit for mechanical work. Electrical work may also require an electrical permit. Read more about the permit here.
* All information given compiled from above sources |
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