Call Paul Davis: What is Black Mold?

No homeowner wants black mold, but what is it? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold grows in wet spots and is often seen around condensation or anywhere near untreated water damage. These spores come into your home by windows, small openings or brought in on shoes and clothing. Although most fungus in your home aren't dangerous, black mold can cause illness if neglected.

How Black Mold affects Health

The spores black mold produces are the main culprit behind black mold poisoning. The most common 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 are seen in the most severe cases of long term exposure.

Information about Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never delay calling a professional to inspect for mold growth. They can go unseen for weeks, and then appear practically overnight. Once mold creates colonies in your living space, it immediately grows and discharges toxins that make life miserable for inhabitants:

  • Mold releases a pungent, mildewed scent that stops rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold wreaks havoc on allergy-sensitive people, as well as those with asthma, causing a physical reaction.
  • Mold can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.
  • Mold toxins can activate chronic inflammation and continuous cold-like symptoms.
  • Individuals with weakened 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 extended 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 setting where it thrives must first be eliminated. Water sources have to be dealt with, and any remaining moisture must be thoroughly dried out. Only then can mold removal and remediation start. Whether a dripping roof, burst pipe, or other entry point, it isn't enough to curtail the tide. Moisture can drench out-of-sight portions of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep coming back to these areas. If you are worried that your home may contain black mold, speak with Paul Davis today. Our team analyzes for presence of black mold before remediation. Depend on our specialists to remove black mold effectively. Keep your family safe, call for an inspection for black mold today.