Just call us far-fetched... When we're through with you, you'll think Star Trek The Next Generation is old hat.

First of all, the reason for the fungus that's among us is because water is where it shouldn't be - the sub area to be specific.

The net affect of water in the sub area can be compared to aphids on roses or termites on wood. Damp soil can result in fungus growth, wood rot, rusty heat ducting, premature house settlement or excessive house movement - not to mention the bad odors you're experiencing.

The culprit here is either damp soil or standing water below the floors in question. The trick is to get rid of the water by making sure that you aren't over-irrigating and by insuring that the grade around the perimeter of your home slopes away from the foundation.

Preventing the water from getting under the floor is the only proof-positive way to prevent mineral salt laden water from seeping up through your concrete, evaporating, leaving mineral residue and causing your linoleum to become bumpy. Even if you were to remove the linoleum, scrape it clean, use an epoxy paint to seal the concrete and then install a new layer of linoleum, hydrostatic (water) pressure might still be great enough to break through the epoxy paint sealant.

With a wood floor, it is possible to deal with the moisture so that it doesn't cause damage while measures are taken to prevent from getting under there in the first place.

This is where the light-in-the-sub area suggestion makes sense. A bright light bulb literally is a real fungus killer. It is important however, to remember that fungus does not die from bright lights alone. Foundation ventilation also should be improved (add more foundation vents), and until the water problem has been eradicated it would be wise to place a fan down there too. This will improve air circulation, which will in turn aid in drying out the soil. How long? For as long as it takes.

If getting rid of the moisture is out of the question, then install a layer of polyethylene (plastic) sheeting over the wet soil. This is done so that steam vapors that emanate from the damp soil will be caused to condense on the layer of plastic instead of the wood floor above. Remember: wet wood becomes rotten wood - and very few home maintenance chores are as expensive to repair.

Once the fans and lights are down there - add some furniture. Who knows you might be able to make a few extra bucks on rental income - just kidding. And good luck!