Fungi associated with urea-formaldehyde foam insulation in Canada

Sixty-eight fungal taxa were identified from samples of urea-formaldehyde foam insulation taken from Canadian residences. Mesophilic taxa were predominant, with Penicillium spp., Trichoderma harzianum and Paecilomyces variotii observed most frequently. Extensive or conspicuous growth also was seen for Hormoconis resinae, Stachybotrys chartarum and Trichoderma viride in some samples. The potential for these fungi to have contributed to the adverse health effects reported in some homes containing UF-foam insulation is discussed.