Owning a business or home is great! You have your own space in which you can do whatever you would like. However, from time to time, unwanted roommates make their way into the building without warning. The pesky intruders we’re talking about are the sometimes harmful fungi that grow inside your home or business. That’s right; we’re talking about indoor mold. Identifying types of mold in your home can help to also identify the most effective treatments, so it’s important!
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that can grow pretty much anywhere. It can be seen indoors as well as outside. It usually grows well in environments that are warm and moist or humid. They make spores as a way of reproduction. The spores are carried to other locations by air or water, spreading the mold. Many molds are health hazards and can cause serious illnesses.
Common Types of Mold Seen Indoors
Unfortunately, the amount of molds in existence is unknown. But there are a good amount of molds that have been studied, making it a little easier to identify mold problems and the best available treatments. There are some molds that can be classified as common indoor molds.
Aspergillus: This mold is commonly found in homes in America. Apparently, there are nearly 200 species of this type of mold and they can appear in different colors. The spores can form long chain-like growths of mold on the wall surface where this mold grows. Aspergillus mold is normally allergenic though it can become toxic depending on the conditions.
Alternaria: The most common type of allergenic mold, Alternaria usually grows in areas where the atmosphere is often moist. These areas include bathtubs, showers, and so forth. This mold is actually one of the most common in the world. It is usually characterized by a velvet-like texture and dark-colored hairs. Alternaria can spread very rapidly. So, it’s important to address its growth as soon as possible.
Cladosporium: This is another type of allergenic mold. It grows in both warm and cold environments. It grows well on fabrics and carpets as well as inside cupboards. Even though it is not toxic mold, it can cause serious issues, including skin rashes or lesions, lung infections, and allergic reactions in the nose and throat areas.
Penicillium: It is normally blue or green in color and grows on water damaged surfaces like carpeting, mattresses, and wallpaper. It causes health issues such as allergic reactions and sinus infections. This is a rapidly spreading mold and should be taken care of quickly.
Stachybotrys: This is a well-known mold that otherwise goes by the name, “black mold”. It grows extremely well in high humidity. And, usually grows on materials like wood, paper, and wicker. It is a toxigenic mold as it can cause both allergic reactions and toxic consequences. Children are especially susceptible to the health dangers of black mold. So, if there is any presence of such mold growth in your home or business, it’s definitely critical to keep children out of the building. However, this is not to say that adults are less likely to become ill! The mold problem should be taken care of immediately.
Ulocladium: It thrives in wet areas, like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and around windows with high levels of moisture. It can lead to major allergic reactions in some people. Often, people confuse this type of mold for others. Professional help will be necessary for proper identification.
Remediating Indoor Mold
If you have indoor mold, A Plus Mold Remediation Inc. can help! We specialize in identifying and eliminating mold growth and strive to keep your home or business mold-free. Get rid of those pesky roommates today. Contact us at (561) 247-3506 or request an estimate.