Mold is a common problem for property owners in the state of Florida, with its warm, humid climate which is perfect for mold development. Organic structural materials and household items, coupled with moisture, nourish and encourage mold growth indoors.
When any member of your household is suffering from chronic allergies or frequent asthma attacks, it may be due to the presence of mold. Learn about mold and its health risks, especially black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), from our team at ServiceMaster by Wright.
In this article, we will discuss the following topics:
What is Mold?
Let’s learn about this common household issue and why it happens!
- Mold is a fungus that is recognized as an organism found in nature. Fungi include yeasts and mushrooms, but they are not as dangerous as mold.
- Mold is typically made up of filaments, which are thread-like or root-like structures. These multicellular threads usually have a fuzzy appearance and are discolored.
- Properties usually make use of porous building materials like wood, which may include products like paper, wood laminates, or even solid wood. Mold generally colonizes moist, porous materials.
- The presence of mold in a home, building, or other properties can be alarming. Mold development that is left unchecked can potentially compromise the structural integrity of your home.
- Mold infestation inside the property can reproduce microscopic, airborne, reproductive spores that can be inhaled by the property’s occupants.
- Mold spores can cause major health problems, including discomfort, allergic responses, and even death in extreme cases.
Types of Mold Commonly Found in Homes
Acremonium
- Acremonium is a toxin-producing mold. It transforms from a little damp mold into a powdered material over time.
- Acremonium is available in a variety of hues, including white, grey, pink, and orange.
- Window sealants, cooling coils, humidifiers, and drain pans are all common sources of Acremonium.
- This type of mold can cause significant diseases that impair the immune system, bone marrow, and other internal organs, in addition to being an unsightly sight in a home.
- In addition, Acremonium is a carcinogen that has the potential to harm the human brain.
Cladosporium
- Cladosporium is an allergenic mold that thrives in both warm and cold environments.
- It can be found in carpets, fabrics, and upholstery, as well as inside cabinets and beneath floorboards.
- Cladosporium is easy to spot thanks to its suede-like texture in brown or olive green.
- Allergies to the nose, eyes, skin, and throat are among the diseases linked to this mold. Lesions, skin rashes, sinusitis, asthma, and lung infections are all serious side effects.
Trichoderma
- Trichoderma is an allergenic mold with green patches that is white in appearance. Wet places, like as carpets, wallpaper, and other damp fabric, are common habitats.
- At first, it grows in colonies with wooly textures, but as time goes on, it becomes compact. Trichoderma can also be detected in the filters of air conditioners.
- Although certain molds in its class are regarded non-pathogenic, it has been related to pulmonary and hepatic problems.
- Trichoderma infestation can cause building walls and structures to crumble because it contains an enzyme that dissolves paper, textiles, and wood. As a result, Trichoderma infestation can cause building walls and structures to crumble.
Aspergillus
- Aspergillus, a common mold sprouting around certain properties, can actually cause severe reactions.
- Some of its adverse effects are respiratory infections, allergic reactions, and inflamed lungs.
- In case this mold type is not eradicated in your home, a dangerous condition can develop.
Aureobasidium
- Typically found on wooden furniture, all surfaces, painted walls, and wallpaper, Aureobasidium can be easily noticed because of its black and pink color.
- According to studies, this type of mold is the worst type of household nuisance since it affects homeowners by intensive allergic reactions.
Alternaria
- Usually found in the sink, shower, and dark areas at home, the Alternaria mold threatens homeowners with asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
- This type of mold is commonly found both indoors and outdoors, so it must be eliminated immediately if not prevented.
What is Black Mold?
Most molds are black, and there is no specific type of mold called ‘black mold.’ Stachybotrys chartarum, a variety of microfungi, is regularly referred to as toxic black mold. This black mold is also associated with ‘Sick Building Syndrome’ or SBS. It is a medical condition where people in a particular property suffer from symptoms of illness for no apparent cause.
A study by Hodgson et al. (1998) presented an evaluation of 14 individuals experiencing general discomfort, with six individuals identified to be suffering from respiratory illnesses, for two years since their initial occupation of a building. S. chartarum, A. versicolor, and Penicillium species contaminated moisture-damaged interior areas, with bulk samples revealing a large quantity of Stachybotrys. This study depicts the human body’s response to mycotoxin exposure indoors.
Dangers of Black Mold
- Symptoms like a headache; eye, nose, and throat irritation; fatigue; dizziness; and nausea are the observed increasing indications in toxic black mold building exposures.
- People with regular immune system functions will generally not get infected with healthy amounts of mold, but in large quantities, anyone would feel sick.
- Persons with a weakened immune system or have immune system problems such as those with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), people undergoing cancer treatment, or patients that have undergone an organ transplant are specifically at a very high risk of any fungal infection.
In 1997, it was reported that several babies in Cleveland, Ohio became ill, and some passed away from bleeding in the lungs from subsequent exposure to remarkably high levels of the Stachybotrus atra mold.
In 2007, the journal Veterinary Forum published an article reporting that two cats had died in what was believed to be the first-ever documented case of black mold poisoning in pets. The cats are from a water-damaged house in Florida. Blood tests confirmed the presence of satratoxin G, a toxin produced by the toxic black mold, and severe mold contamination was found in the house.
A variety of health problems can develop, that is why diligent steps should be taken in advance at the very first signs of mold infestation in your property. Whenever you take notice of discoloration in your home decors or suspect weird building or property odors, take immediate steps to contact a professional mold inspector.
How to Control Moisture
To prevent mold growth, it is necessary to control moisture.
- Regularly check for pipe leaks, burst pipes, or any other potential source of errant water that could cause moisture inside your house. This includes regular inspection of gutters and drainpipes that help keep water out during rain.
- Keep moisture out through proper ventilation. Invest in exhaust fans or open your windows to improve airflow, especially in areas prone to getting wet like your laundry room, bathroom, and kitchen.
- It only takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to start growing, so if things do get wet, dry them immediately. This is true even for clothes and towels. Hang them outside or in a room with proper ventilation instead of just leaving them lying around.
- Keep the humidity inside your house below 60%. Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners and familiarize yourself with the local weather if needed.
How to Minimize Mold Spores
- Mold spores can stick to your clothes and shoes until you get home. Pets can bring them inside with their fur. They can even float in through open windows, given the right wind condition.
- The bottom line is, mold spores can get inside your house whether you like it or not. Dust and vacuum regularly to remove mold spores that have settled inside your house.
- Use air purifiers to remove airborne mold spores. The ones with HEPA filter are most effective, able to remove 99% of air pollutants.
Got Mold? Schedule a Mold Removal Appointment in Southwest Florida
If you observe musty odors, black spots on damp areas, discoloration on walls, or water stains on ceilings, do not feel helpless. ServiceMaster by Wright is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (239) 431-9947. You may also connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
- IICRC accreditation (all techs are all certified through IICRC)
- Time-tested environmentally conscious processes and procedures
- Equipment operation, safety, and maintenance
- Minimizes any negative environmental and health impacts
We service residential and commercial properties in Sarasota, Florida, and the surrounding areas. Don’t know what to do next? We do. Contact us today!
