Health risks and property damage are associated with black mold. If you have a mold problem, the first thing you should do is figure out what type of mold it is. With a little research, you should be able to identify your type of mold quickly and easily.
What Is Black Mold and How to Know if Your Home Suffer From It?
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Molds occur in nature in many forms, many of which do not pose a threat, but mold indoors isn’t something anyone wants.
Black mold is one kind of mold that is particularly hard to eliminate. It feeds on building materials rich in cellulose, such as wood and drywall, and breeds in damp environments. Detecting black mold as early as possible is imperative since it grows quickly.
Here are specific things you need to know about black mold.
- Black mold thrives on or near cellulose-rich materials such as drywall and wood.
- Moisture encourages the growth of black mold.
- It typically grows inside walls first, which means that homeowners can smell it before they notice it.
- Condensation is a common source of black mold growth, which thrives in air ducts, window sills, bathrooms, and kitchens.
- Black mold can grow on sealants and grout. Caulk and bathroom tiles should be carefully inspected since they’re frequently in moist areas like the shower.
How Will You Know If Molds Are Around Your House
Mold can be found in any place. But how can you confirm the presence of molds in your house? Here are a few tips:
Check The House For Water Damage
Areas with water damage, humid conditions, and humidifiers are more likely to have mold growth. Prevention is always better than cure. Before you give them the chance to grow, it’s best to regularly check these places.
Check Visible Signs
Check the house for visible mold signs such as discoloration and growth on walls, ceilings, or any other surface. If you see these symptoms then it is likely that there is a problem with your HVAC system or plumbing.
Look Out for Allergy Symptoms
Look for mold symptoms such as coughing, runny nose, sneezing, headaches, and fatigue as these symptoms may indicate that you have been exposed to high levels of mold spores.
There is no medical evidence for the existence of diseases such as toxic mold syndrome. Black mold can, however, have negative effects on people who suffer from allergies or weakened immune systems.
Mold inspectors like Servmold of Dallas can assess your home if your home has an odor of must or if family members are experiencing respiratory issues or allergic reactions. While it is possible for you to identify black mold yourself, removing it without the right training may be much more challenging.
How To Identify Black Mold
Recognize the Smell of Black Mold
In some cases, the smell of molds may linger in your house. A black mold that has just begun to grow may not have a strong odor. As it matures, it develops a strong earthy smell. Black mold that has been established in your home often smells more pungent than other kinds of mold.
Inspect the Form and Color
Black mold can easily be mistaken for dust or dirt. Usually, black mold has smaller spore clusters and occupies a confined space. In damp conditions, it might, however, spread to other parts of the wall or room.
Check the Texture
Black mold is typically slimy or moist when compared to other kinds. Early forms of black mold can appear powdery. Use a paper towel when checking the texture of the mold. Be sure to put on a mask, gloves, coveralls, and safety goggles when working with mold.
Use A Mold Testing Kit
Home improvement stores and online retailers sell mold test kits. Kits vary in cost, from $8 to $300, depending on the type.
A mold sample collection can only help you verify the presence of mold, so you may need a lab test to determine the type of mold present. Extra analyses can sometimes cost you $40 to $70.
Safety Considerations
Black mold is a health hazard so you may want to know these safety considerations.
- If you must identify, touch, or clean mold, always wear protective clothing.
- After you have assessed the mold growth, clean and disinfect your protective gear. If not cleaned properly, pores can adhere to surfaces and spread.
- Contact a professional mold removal company immediately if you discover large amounts of black mold. Attempting to remove black mold on your own can cause the spores to recolonize.
Final Thoughts
Develop a plan to clean and remove black mold once its presence has been determined. A small area of black mold or mold in its early stages can sometimes be removed on your own. Black mold, however, is particularly hazardous if it is extensive or in a hard-to-reach area. A mold removal specialist like Servmold of Dallas will be able to help you if you are worried about health hazards.
