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Mold
Mold is a fungus that grows on damp surfaces and can cause health problems and material damage.
Why it matters
Mold needs moisture to grow. Controlling moisture through air sealing, ventilation, and leak repair prevents mold.
Where people get this wrong
Bleach does not always kill mold. Cleaning visible mold without fixing the moisture source allows it to return. Some mold is hidden in walls.
Real-world example
A musty smell appears in a bathroom. Black spots show up in the corners. The exhaust fan was not vented outside, and moisture built up.
Where this hits your build
This affects comfort, energy costs, and indoor air quality. It gets locked behind drywall, so decisions here need to be right before finishing starts.
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