(NUI) - The growth of mold in buildings not only presents health-related problems, but also requires expensive home repairs. Some homeowners who find mold in their home have to completely remove and replace walls and ceilings where the mold growth has been discovered. Mold can grow when its food sources - such as wood construction materials and furniture, paper in drywall and wallpaper, and organic fibers in fabrics, carpet backings and dust -  are exposed to high levels of moisture.

(NUI) - In January 1998, fire erupted from the gas water heater in the Crowders' 1950s ranch-style home. Although the family escaped unharmed, their wood frame home was destroyed within 15 minutes despite an immediate response from the local fire department. Unfortunately, the Crowders are not alone. According to the National fire Protection Association, 76 percent of all structure fires in the United States in 2001 occurred in residences, resulting in $4.65 billion worth of property loss in one- and two- family dwellings alone. Fire also kills more Americans than all natural disasters combined, with 84 percent of all fire deaths occurring in residences.