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Painting over mold is not an effective solution and can actually make the problem worse. Instead, it traps moisture, which allows mold to grow and spread beneath the surface. Mold must be completely removed before painting to ensure the problem doesn’t recur. If mold is painted over, it may eventually seep through the new layer of paint, causing discoloration and peeling.

It’s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they’re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.

Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.

Mold can greatly impact your home's appraisal and lower your selling price if your home's on the market. Home appraisers take mold into account when figuring out a property's overall value. Mold will lower your home's price because it poses a health risk to household members and can compromise the structural integrity of the house. Mold will require remediation, which in extreme cases can be costly, so that is factored into your home's appraisal as well.

Yes, it is common for mold to grow on the underside of the siding due to the moist atmosphere. When there is an abundance of moisture, mold has the ideal environment to spread and thrive. This fungus can be found on virtually any surface, both indoors and outdoors. Generally, it is most active when the environment is warm, damp, and humid.