Article: MOISTURE IS GOOD FOR MUSHROOMS, BUT BAD FOR HOME

Recently, I visited the home of a close relative and saw a mushroom growing in the crack of the hardwood floor outside the door that leads to a bathroom, and there appeared to be some water damage. The floor surrounding the mushroom was black (possible mold and mildew). Should this be cause for alarm? The mushroom is on the second floor. Any suggestions?

Karen, via e-mail

I, too, have seen mushrooms growing in diverse places. I saw one growing on the bottom panel of an overhead garage door, and another time I saw one growing out of the carpeting of a new home. Mushrooms are fungi which require oxygen, a food source, suitable temperature and a source of water to thrive.

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