Molds are fungi that develop and thrive in damp and moist conditions. They can grow inside homes and businesses in areas with a lot of moisture, such as under sinks, around pipes, or near leaks.
Mold spores can enter your structure through open windows and doors, vents, and HVAC systems. At the first signs of mold growth, there is a need to contact a professional to provide inspection and remediation immediately, as neglected mold development could lead to allergies, respiratory conditions, and a compromised structure.
Most mold species are harmless, but there are those that could pose hazards to human health. The most common types of mold found in homes are listed below, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Aspergillus
- Aspergillus is a type of mold commonly found indoors and outdoors.
- It is cottony in texture and appears white at first, then turns brown, black, green, or yellow depending on the species.
- Aspergillus has long flask-shaped spores, forming thick layers of the mold.
- It is classified as an allergenic mold and can cause people with weakened immune systems to develop health problems, such as allergic reactions and bodily organ infections.
- Aspergillosis is an infection resulting from inhaling Aspergillus, which can develop into infectious pneumonia when left untreated.
Cladosporium
- Cladosporium is a type of mold that can develop in warm or cold environments, often found in materials like carpeting, fabric and upholstery.
- It could appear blackish-brown, brown, or greenish-gray in color and has a suede-like texture.
- Cladosporium could cause eye, skin, throat and nose irritations; breathing problems; allergic reactions; and respiratory infections.
Penicillium
- Penicillium appears velvety in texture and can either be blue or green in color.
- Like most mold, it can be found in areas with high moisture, such as those affected by water damage.
- While Penicillium is used in medicine for its antibiotic properties, it could be dangerous indoors.
- Exposure to Penicillium can aggravate existing respiratory conditions and cause asthma, pulmonary inflammation, and chronic sinusitis.
Large mold infestations are usually characterized by a strong musty odor and are visible. However, some mold can remain hidden and grow behind drywall, under carpeting or other areas that may be hard to access.
If you notice mold growth in your home or place of business, immediately schedule for an indoor air quality test and contact a professional for mold removal after the test confirms mold growth in your property.
Why is Air Quality Testing Necessary?
Indoor air quality testing is performed to determine if the air inside a structure contains allergens, mold, harmful gases, or other contaminants and indicate if the air quality is safe or dangerous. Mold inspections often require the conduct of an air quality test to determine the source or location of the mold, the type of mold present, and the extent of contamination or infestation.
Once an air quality test has been performed, mold remediation technicians can start making a detailed mold remediation plan based on the results of the test and determine the methods, products, and equipment best suited to contain and remove the mold present.
How to Tell If Mold is Toxic?
While most mold species pose no harm, some are toxic and can cause different health concerns. Here’s how to know if the mold growing in your home is toxic.
- Bad odors – Unusual smells and musty odors can indicate a toxic mold type. Find the location of the smell to have it removed immediately.
- Dark stains or spots – Visible mold appear as dark spots or patches on drywall or ceilings. Schedule a mold inspection right away to know if this mold is toxic.
- Persistent stains even after cleanup – Experts do not recommend cleaning up mold on your own, but if you have wiped the mold away and there remains a staining on the affected area, you need to call a professional right away as this may indicate that the growth has penetrated into the material.
- Appearance – Take note of the color and consistency of the mold. The toxic mold Stachybotrys chartarum appears greenish-black or gray and slimy. Toxic mold may also appear brown or orange in color. Contact a professional mold inspection and remediation company right away.
- Health problems – Exposure to mold growth can cause allergies, trigger asthma, and result in respiratory problems especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Make a Mold Remediation Appointment With Us
Rely on a trusted company to take care of mold damage. Armstrong Water Mold Cleanup & Restorations is an experienced, certified, licensed and insured general contractor and a specialist in providing water damage, mold remediation and all levels of disaster restoration in Southwest Florida since 2005.
- We are IICRC-Certified in Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire & Smoke Restoration, and Applied Microbial Remediation (#100623)
-  We are certified to be Lead-Safe by theUS Environmental Protection Agency (#NAT-F155753-1, issued 7-10-2015)
- We work with your insurance company to maximize the covered benefits for property restoration.
- We offer a FREE inspection and estimate and respond in 2 hours or less.
All workmanship is 100% guaranteed. Call Armstrong Water Mold Cleanup & Restorations at (239) 592-3777 or contact us online. We are located in 1230 Hemingway Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33912.
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