Not all varieties of mold in the home are toxic, but black mold is one type that warrants serious professional attention. Mold is simply another word for fungi that occurs naturally in literally thousands of different varieties. Only a relative few are toxic to humans, and black mold tops the list of "usual suspects" when mold contamination affects the interior of a home and the health of its occupants. There's plenty of evidence against black mold: long-term exposure is associated with a spectrum of symptoms, including allergic reactions like hay fever, asthma attacks, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and even depression.
What Is Black Mold?
The formal name is Stachybotrys chartarum. This type of mold is particularly adapted to growing inside structures when minimal requirements of moisture and food are available.
Is Black Mold Black?
Often, it is not. In fact, black mold may be closer to green in color or appear in various shades of brown, as well. However, other types of harmless molds assume this same coloration, too, so suspected black mold infection inside a house can only be confirmed by a mold remediation specialist who will test direct samples.
What Causes Black Mold?
Black mold is caused by an excess of moisture in a home. It is most often found in areas of a house or business that have a high level of humidity, such as bathrooms, crawl spaces, kitchens, and basements. Black mold growth can also be caused by water leaks, flooding, and other water accumulation that is not cleaned up quickly. Once it gets into the home, it can easily spread to other areas if not addressed quickly.
What's So Toxic About Black Mold?
Like all mold, active black mold releases millions of microscopic airborne reproductive spores. These invisible particles accumulate in the enclosed environment of a home to levels one would never encounter in the great outdoors. However, black mold spores carry chemicals called mycotoxins that are known to be toxic to humans when inhaled.
"We understand that black mold is a serious issue and can cause health problems if not removed properly. We offer professional mold remediation services that not only remove black mold, but also sterilize surfaces and take air samples to ensure a successful removal."
Randy Arnold - Rytech Restoration Director of Training & Development
How Is Black Mold Treated?
Treating black mold can be a complex process. First, the affected area must be thoroughly dried to prevent further mold growth. If the mold has already spread, it must be removed by a professional mold remediation company. This is done by using special cleaning solutions to thoroughly clean and sanitize the area. Once the mold is removed, the area is inspected to ensure the mold has been eradicated. If necessary, a mold inhibitor can be used to prevent new mold growth.
What Can I Do About Black Mold?
Successfully treating black mold in the home is not a DIY project. A qualified mold remediation specialist can test the growth to verify the type of black mold and sample the spore count in the air to determine the extent of the contamination. After the physical removal of the primary growth, he'll utilize anti-microbial products specifically formulated for the type of black mold to sterilize surfaces and prevent a recurrence. In follow-up visits, air samples will be taken to confirm successful remediation. For a professional approach to diagnosing and treating black mold in the home, contact Rytech Restoration today!
