Signs of Black Mold Growth
Posted: in Mold
What is Black Mold?
Black mold is a toxic spore that grows in damp and dark areas. It grows to be green or gray. However, when toxic, black mold becomes a dark black color. Black mold is dangerous because it produces mycotoxins which can lead to severe allergic reactions and health issues. If spores get inhaled, it can cause chronic fatigue, migraines, irritation of the eyes, sneezing, rashes, and chronic coughing. If not treated, nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs can occur.
Black mold is one of the most infamous and toxic molds that can be found in homes. The speed at which black mold spreads and the extent of damage it does to your property depends on how quickly you act to remediate it.
How Black Mold Spreads
- High humidity. Mold, including black mold, is often related to high levels of humidity. The optimal humidity level is between 30% and 50%. Anything above that is breeding ground for mold growth.
- Moisture / water damage. Similarly, black mold loves moisture. This one is by far the most common way for mold to grow. Leaky pipes, faucets or toilets, window condensation, recent flooding, etc. all create enough moisture for black mold to develop and proliferate.
- Airborne transmission. Black mold spores can travel in the air. It is possible for black mold spores to be brought into your home from the outside. If they settle onto a surface where moisture is present, they can begin to grow and multiply.
Signs of Black Mold Growth
- Discoloration. Discoloration of walls and other surfaces is a sign that you have black mold growing in your house. Yellow water stains on walls are often succeeded by black spots of mold. Black mold can also attack other indoor surfaces such as furniture and carpets, not just walls.
- Odor. If you can’t see the mold, you can usually smell it. Black mold has a very unique musty or earthy smell. You will be able to tell because it is a smell that is not common to find in a house.
- Health changes. Have you or anyone else in your household been feeling ill lately? If you have noticed moist areas in your home or have recently had a leak or flood, you should absolutely consider mold to be a potential culprit. If you have even the slightest suspicion that your home could have mold, call a mold remediation company immediately to request an inspection.
It is better safe than sorry when it comes to your family’s health. So, if you suspect or know of black mold in your home, contact FP Property Restoration to learn how our mold remediation services can help you take control of the situation.
Related Posts:
- The Health Threats of Black Mold
- How Does Mold Grow?
- Preventing Mold After Water Damage