What is Black Mold?

Every homeowner fears black mold, but do you know why? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold grows in damp spots and is often found in areas where condensation has collected or anywhere near neglected water damage. These spores enter the home by windows, small openings or tracked on personal items and clothing. Although most fungus around your home aren’t dangerous, black mold causes health issues after long term exposure.

Black Mold Poisoning

Black mold is a toxic mold with spores. Symptoms include chronic sneezing, irritation to the eyes, mucus membranes of the nose and throat as well as skin rashes. Other symptoms include chronic fatigue and persistent headaches. Nausea, vomiting and bleeding in the lungs and nose occur in the most severe cases of long term exposure.

About Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never postpone calling a professional to inspect for mold infestation. They can go ignored for weeks, and then appear practically overnight.

Once mold creates colonies in your property, it quickly breeds and releases toxins that make life unpleasant for occcupants:

  • Mold releases a strong, musty odor that prevents rooms from smelling fresh.
  • Mold causes problems for allergy-sensitive individuals, as well as those with asthma, making symptoms flare up.
  • A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.
  • Mold toxins can cause chronic inflammation and continuous cold-like symptoms.
  • People with compromised immune systems can get systemic infections of the lungs, skin, or digestive tract.
  • In rare cases, mold toxins can cause neurological problems or even death.
  • The more prolonged the exposure, the greater the danger.

Unusually humid homes and offices can be subject to mold invasions even if no water damage has occurred. If you see or smell something that could be mold, get an expert opinion immediately.

To get rid of mold, the environment where it flourishes must first be eliminated. Water sources have to be handled, and any residual moisture must be carefully dried out. Only then can mold removal and remediation start.

Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other opening, it isn’t enough to curtail the tide. Moisture can soak hidden portions of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep returning to these spots.

If you are worried that your home may contain black mold, contact Paul Davis today. Our team inspects for existence of black mold before remediation. Depend on our contractors to remove black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, schedule an inspection for black mold today.