The Six Common Molds Found in Homes

Mold is a broad term for different microorganisms that grow in the presence of a food source and frequently require adequate moisture. Mold is a fungus, and growths are typically called “mildew.”

The typical homeowner can not control and remove mold on their own efficiently. It is always suggested to contact a mold removal specialist if you see any one of the following in your home to avoid further health problems.

Kinds of Molds Found in Homes

These are the common types that you may identify in homes.

Alternaria

• Type of Mold: Allergenic
• Appearance: Have dark green or brown hairs and velvety feel.
• Location: Generally, you may locate this mold in sinks, showers, and bathtubs. It spreads quickly and frequently when there’s water damage.
• Hazard: If you have allergies, breathing in Alternaria spores can trigger signs comparable to asthma and upper respiratory illnesses. The mold may not harm you if you don’t have a respiratory concern. Why not follow this link if you need a reputable contractor for mold remediation? 

Aureobasidium

• Type of Mold: Allergenic
• Appearance: Normally pink, brown, or black, but as it grows, it usually turns a darker shade of brown.
• Location: On painted or wooden surfaces or often found under wallpaper.
• Hazard: Aureobasidium, a “sooty mold,” can harm the skin when contacted. It begins as a light pink or gray color. However, as it ages, it develops a deep brownish-black color. It is possible to spread the irritants and develop an infection by contacting Aureobasidium mold and touching your face or eyes.

Chaetomium

• Type of Mold: Allergenic
• Appearance: Generally starting white, the shade of this cotton-like textured mold gradually darkens with time, going from gray to brown to black.
• Location: Generally, a severely water-damaged structure such as the roof, cellar, pipes, and drywall. You should avoid places with a musty odor.
• Hazard: Chaetomium spores can cause allergic reactions such as watery eyes, sneezing, and itchy throats in healthy individuals and more severe respiratory symptoms in those with weakened immune systems.

Penicillium

• Type of Mold: Allergenic
• Appearance: With a velvet-like feel, it is bluish or greenish in hue.
• Location: Structures with water damage, notably to beds, ducting, wallpaper, and carpets. Furthermore, it spreads quickly.
• Hazard: It releases spores that have the potential to trigger allergy-like symptoms like sinusitis, breathing problems, and asthma attacks. The symptoms might aggravate those with immune system conditions, resulting in long-term health problems.

Stachybotrys (Black mold)

• Type of Mold: Toxigenic
• Appearance: Slimy in texture, dark green or black.
• Location: Materials that can get moist, humid, and damp for weeks like wood, cardboard, and wicker.
• Hazard: Severe headaches, unexplained nosebleeds, upper-respiratory irritation, and weariness are just a few physical signs and symptoms that Stachybotrys can generate. Infants’ lungs may potentially hemorrhage as a result. Check out this certified mold mitigation company if you’ve decided to seek professional remediation.

Trichoderma

• Type of Mold: Toxigenic
• Appearance: There are five distinctive subspecies, although they commonly have fuzzy white and green spots.
• Location: A/C filters, HVAC ducts, and other moist areas like wet wallpaper and carpet.
• Hazard: Coughing, sneezing, and bronchial infections can be induced by Trichoderma in your home. Mycotoxins are volatile organic chemicals that may create severe concerns, including lung infections, liver and kidney illnesses, nervous system difficulties, and even some forms of cancer. Some strains are capable of producing these mycotoxins.

Conclusion

All indoor surroundings include some mold spores. Most people are unaffected by this. However, those with compromised immune systems might be more susceptible to health problems, particularly lung issues, if mold spores are present in the atmosphere. Some people could have allergic responses.

The most effective strategy to stop mold from growing inside a building is to maintain it dry, clean, and well ventilated. Ask your healthcare practitioner or the state health agency for help if you have worries concerning mold in your house, place of employment, educational facility, or any other environment.