Mold becomes especially hazardous once it’s airborne, which often happens when it’s disturbed. While major events like flooding or water damage can release mold spores into the air, even routine activities—like sanding, minor repairs, or heavy foot traffic on carpeted areas—can unknowingly spread spores throughout a home. These airborne particles are hard to detect and can quickly spread, especially in humid or poorly ventilated spaces.

Once inhaled or accidentally ingested, mold spores can settle in the lungs or digestive system, leading to inflammation, respiratory problems, and other serious health risks—particularly for those with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems.

In cases where asbestos is also present, the danger increases significantly. Inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers can embed them in lung or stomach tissue, leading to life-threatening conditions like asbestosis, lung cancer, or gastrointestinal cancer. That’s why proper containment, removal, and disposal by trained professionals is critical.