Fighting Black Mold

Every homeowner fears black mold, but what is it? Black mold (also known as Stachybotrys) grows in moist areas and is most commonly seen around condensation or pools or standing water inside. These spores enter the house through windows, other entrances and can also be tracked on shoes and coats. Although most fungus around your house aren't dangerous, this species causes illness if neglected.

What are the Health Risks?

The spores black mold releases are the main culprit behind black mold poisoning. 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 can all be symptomatic of black mold exposure or black mold poisoning. Especially severe cases of prolonged contact to black mold can be more life threatening. Often compounded by allergic reaction to the black mold spores, these symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose.

About Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never postpone calling a professional to inspect for mold infestation. They can go unseen for weeks, and then spring up virtually overnight. Once mold forms colonies in your property, it quickly breeds and discharges toxins that make life unpleasant for inhabitants:

  • Mold emanates a strong, mildewed smell that stops rooms from smelling fresh.
  • Mold wreaks havoc on allergy-sensitive people, as well as those with asthma, causing a physical reaction.
  • A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
  • Mold toxins can activate long-lasting 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 lengthy the exposure, the greater the danger.
Unusually humid homes and offices can be subject to mold infestations even if no water damage has occurred. If you see or smell something that could be mold, get a skillful opinion immediately. If you want to eradicate mold, the environment where it prospers must first be eliminated. Water sources have to be handled, and any remaining moisture must be carefully dried out. Only then can mold elimination and remediation start. Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other opening, it isn't enough to stem the tide. Moisture can soak out-of-sight portions of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep returning to these spots. Call Paul Davis today if you suspect your home contains black mold. We safely inspect and confirm the presence of black mold before remediation. Depend on our professionals to remove black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, request an inspection for black mold today.