What Mold Is
Updated: Feb 22, 2019
Mold is a fungus that thrives in warm areas where there is even the slightest amount of moisture build up. Like other fungi it requires an organic food source to grow, which can include dust, dirt, debris, wood, cardboard, etc. Once its growth begins, mold can spread quite rapidly with an ample supply of humidity. As it multiplies, it produces spores, which become airborne and begin covering other areas.
Not only do the spores enable mold to contaminate other areas fast, but also when mold is present in the air, it reduces air quality and can cause various health issues. There are several varieties of mold that are distinguishable by colors, textures, and the environment where it is growing. Some molds pose more health dangers than others, however, all varieties have been known to induce allergic reactions.
Types of Mold
One of the most common types of mold is called Aspergillus. This mold species is frequently seen on leather surfaces or food sources and is colored blue-green, black, gray, or yellow. Another species of mold that is frequently found in homes or buildings and cultivates in areas with plumbing apparatuses, air duct systems, and painted areas is known as Cladosporium and appears in a green or black color.
Among the different species, Stachybotrys Chartarum is the most dangerous. It almost always has a black color and when found, it is imperative that immediate action be taken. Contact a mold specialist in your area immediately. When dealing with this species of mold, you will need a home mold remediation performed by experts.
Health Dangers
Mold can cause allergic reactions that include eye and throat irritation, difficulty breathing, headaches and depression. Individuals with weakened immune systems as well as young children and elderly adults are most frequently affected by mold. When mold is present in the air, it can induce lung infections for people who suffer from asthma or chronic lung illnesses.
Mold Spreads Rapidly
Mold does not go away, nor is it simply cleaned up with an over the counter household disinfectant. Once present, it will contaminate areas quickly, growing on walls, ceilings, carpets, upholstery, inside walls, underneath homes and more. Mold is not only dangerous to your health and a nuisance when found; it has the ability to destroy structures. Don’t delay in getting a mold issue resolved and avoid the temptation to handle it on your own.
Seek Professional Assistance
Mold is not always visible, and once it is noticed, most likely it has been breeding undetected for a period of time. To ensure proper removal of the mold and to determine where it was initiated requires the assistance of professionals who deal with mold. Cleaning up the mold is only one step and to help prevent future regrowth, the problem must be identified and repaired.
Contact your local mold inspector today so you can restore safety in your home.
