Mold is a common issue that happens in homes, and it can become dangerous if it is left untreated. Mold usually occurs in damp, dark areas of the home like the bathroom or basement. While small amounts of mold don’t have immediate consequences, it can quickly grow and become a major problem that poses health risks. This blog will teach you about mold, how to know when mold is dangerous, and what can be done to get rid of it.
Understanding Mold: The Basics
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in multicellular filaments called hyphae. It is a natural part of the environment and plays a crucial role in decomposing organic matter. However, when mold grows indoors, it can become a problem as it can cause structural damage to buildings and pose health risks to occupants.
There are several types of mold commonly found indoors, including the following:
- Cladosporium: This type of mold is often green, brown, or black in color and can grow on fabrics, wood, and other porous material.
- Aspergillus: Aspergillus mold can appear in various colors and is commonly found on dust, drywall, and food items. Some species of Aspergillus can produce toxins which can cause respiratory issues and other health problems.
- Penicillium: Penicillium mold is often blue or green and is frequently found on food items, wallpaper, and insulation materials. Some species of Penicillium produce antibiotics, but they can also produce mycotoxins under certain conditions.
- Stachybotrys: Also known as black mold, Stachybotrys is dark green or black and typically grows on materials with high cellulose content, such as drywall and wood. It has garnered attention due to its potential health effects.
Mold requires certain conditions to grow, which includes moisture, warmth, and organic material. Mold thrives in moist environments, so any area with excessive humidity or water leaks can promote its growth. Poor ventilation, condensation, and flooding are common sources of moisture that can lead to mold problems.
While mold can grow in a variety of temperatures, it tends to thrive in warmer environments. Indoor temperatures between 77 degrees and 86 degrees (Fahrenheit) are particularly conducive to mold growth. Mold also feeds on organic materials such as wood, paper, fabric, and dust. These materials provide nutrients for mold to grow and colonize. Cellulose is especially attractive to mold.
Some common places for mold growth include the following:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Basements
- In walls
- Under carpets
- In HVAC systems
Signs of Mold Infestation
The first and most obvious way to identify mold is when it is visible on surfaces. Mold is often black, green, white, blue, or brown, depending on the species and the materials it is growing on. Mold often starts as small spots that can grow into larger patches, and they may be clustered together or spread out. Mold can have a fuzzy, cotton-like appearance or be slimy and wet to the touch, which is more dependent on the moisture level and type of mold.
The next sign of a mold infestation is a distinct, musty odor. The smell is often described as earthy or damp that is similar to the smell of a forest floor or damp wood. It can also smell stale or mildewy, like the scent of wet socks or a musty basement. The odor tends to linger and may become more pronounced in areas with poor ventilation or high humidity.
Areas that have experienced water damage are prime locations for mold infestations because mold spores need moisture to germinate and thrive. Signs of past or current water damage may indicate mold growth. Yellow, brown, or dark stains on walls, ceilings, and floors indicate past or ongoing water intrusion. Along with this, water-damaged wood, drywall, or flooring may warp, crack, or buckle, providing an ideal environment for mold growth.
There are several other signs of water damage, including bubbling or peeling paint, damp or wet areas, watermarks and rings, and condensation. Keep an eye out for these signs, as they may indicate an unknown mold infestation.
When Mold is Dangerous
Here are some of the biggest signs that mold has become dangerous:
Large-Scale Infestations
When mold is dangerous and goes unchecked, it can quickly cover large surfaces and become a significant infestation. Mold that covers extensive areas of walls, ceilings, or floors that has a pervasive odor throughout the building indicates a dangerous amount of mold. Mold that has penetrated and weakened structural materials or contaminated HVAC systems can be dangerous, as well.
Persistent Health Symptoms
Exposure to mold can lead to a variety of health problems, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune system. Respiratory issues like persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and throat irritation are red flags to watch out for, along with nasal congestion, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Feeling constantly tired and having neurological symptoms like headaches and dizziness are also signs that you may be living in a home with dangerous levels of mold.
Individuals experiencing health issues related to mold exposure may notice their symptoms improve when they leave the affected environment. If symptoms worsen upon returning home or spending time in certain rooms, it could indicate a mold problem.
Choose Nook-N-Kranny for Mold Remediation
When mold is dangerous, you need professionals to help with mold remediation. At Nook-N-Kranny, we get to the root of your mold problem to effectively eradicate the mold from growing any further or coming back. It can be hard to identify yourself when mold is dangerous, so take precautionary measures by consulting with professionals. Keep you and your loved ones safe by contacting us and we’ll get your home protected.
