Understanding the Five Common House Molds

Identifying if your home is bugged with mold is ideal, but understanding the different types of house molds will help you take the following necessary action. Most people assume that only older homes are subject to mold infestation, which is incorrect. Mold-infested property or structures can cause substantial degradation and risk to your health.

This post intends to help you consider when to employ specialists because you will be able to identify some of the most common molds found in homes that need to be dealt with by professionals.

Understanding Mold Types

Mold is a broad term referring to numerous microorganisms that develop in the presence of a food supply and usually require a sufficient amount of moisture. A mold is a type of fungus, and growths are often referred to as “mildew.” Mold is identified into three primary groups.

• Allergenic – molds in this group are not dangerous but can induce allergic responses such as asthma. Examples: Chaetomium, Alternaria, Ulocladium, Serpula, Penicillium, and Aureobasidium.
• Pathogenic – this category of molds can trigger health issues in those currently prone due to other factors. Example: Aspergillus.
• Toxigenic – these mold families are the most deadly because they generate toxins that can cause serious health issues, even death. Examples: Stachybotrys (Black mold) and Trichoderma.

It is challenging for somebody with little experience with mold and its risks to recognize each mold kind. Mold may become a considerable health risk in your home if left uncontrolled. Take into consideration doing early water damage and mold assessments by high-quality property restoration Chatham on your property.

Most Common Molds Found in Homes

Alternaria

Alternaria is a fast-growing mold that develops in about five days at temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. It generates allergic responses in humans and promotes hypersensitive illnesses such as hay fever and asthma. This bacterium can infect humans whose immune systems are weakened.

Aspergillus Fumigatus

Aspergillus fumigatus is the most prevalent and hazardous mold variety. Spores have a cotton feel and could be blue-green or gray in hue. Other Aspergilli species are toxigenic and can produce aflatoxins. These are compounds that can stimulate cancer growth.

Aureobasidium

This fast-growing, allergenic yeast-like organism thrives in both outdoor and indoor circumstances with enough moisture. This mold is typically found on wooden furniture, walls, and surfaces. People often acquire allergic reactions since they are widely noticed in families, and if left untreated, they might advance to more severe reactions.

Chaetomium

Keep an eye out for grayish-green mold growth on any cellulose-containing product. Chaetomium is an allergic mold that generally starts as a fluffy white growth. It darkens with time and may look like the feared black mold; it needs appropriate moisture to flourish. Always inspect your property after a flood or any water damage concerns. Seek help from a water damage restoration in Sarnia for effective mitigation.

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is generally found in rugs and hardwood flooring. This mold can flourish in cold and warm environments, making it more harmful. Cladosporium is a black or green “peppery” mold that develops on the back of toilets, painted surfaces, and fiberglass air ducts. While this mold is not dangerous to people, it can cause common allergy symptoms such as red and watery eyes, rashes, sore throat, and bronchial asthma. Employ a competent mold cleaning company for an efficient approach to mold problems; click this link to find one.

Prevent Mold Growth in Your Home

• Resolve any roofing system or plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Ensure the soil surrounding your house’s foundation slopes away from the home so that your basement does not flood.
• Dry clothes outside on a clothesline or with a dryer that vents air outside. Use kitchen, bathroom, or window fans that vent damp air outdoors. If you don’t have fans, open a window when cooking or showering.
• If your basement is wet, invest in a dehumidifier. Running an air conditioner will remove some moisture from the air as it cools it in the summer. If it’s humid outdoors, do not keep your windows open when using an air-conditioning appliance.