Mold can grow in the dark places we can’t see, but it can also hide in items we use every single day. Mold grows in your walls, ceilings, windows, floors, furniture, insulation, air ducts, basements, and even clothes. This can be dangerous since mold can cause a lot of health problems, such as respiratory issues, migraines, or affect those with asthma. The 3 most likely types of household mold you’ll find are Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys Atra (aka black mold). In this article, we are going to describe each so that you can spot them early on and remediate a full-blown infestation before it’s too late!
Aspergillus
Aspergillus is typically green and yellow, and forms in a circular shape. It can be most common in carpet, mattresses, and walls exposed to extreme humidity. Aspergillus can cause symptoms such as a cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, or fatigue. It is the most common type of indoor mold and thrives in the built environment.
Cladosporium
This type of mold forms in clusters of green, yellow or black and is very difficult to find, making it hard to catch before it becomes a serious problem. It thrives during the warmer months and can spread very fast if unaddressed. This ninja-like mold can cause sneezing, dry skin, hives, itchy throat and eyes, coughing, and congestion.
Stachybotrys (Black Mold)
This is a greenish-black fungus and typically grows in the cracks and crevices of sheetrock and wood. Despite its very bad reputation, it is actually quite uncommon and rarely becomes airborne. Stachybotrys can cause chronic allergy symptoms, mucous build-up, rashes, chronic fatigue, and persistent headaches.
Tips to Reduce Mold in Your Home
There are methods to reduce the kind of mold growth that can cause respiratory problems or permanent damage to your walls, floors, and ceilings. Here are a few tips to keep dangerous mold at bay:
-reduce moisture with proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
-monitor humidity, and keep a dehumidifier in the house
-ensure drainage systems are working properly and have your HVAC system checked
-clean out your gutters at least twice per year
Don’t ever try to remediate a mold problem yourself, or you will be fighting in a constant losing battle against this microscopic pest (and expose yourself to harmful spores). Call the mold remediation experts at BioResponse today and let us battle the mold giant for you!
