Combating Black Mold

No homeowner wants black mold, but what is it? Black mold (also known as Stachybotrys) grows in damp places and is usually found around condensation or pools or standing water inside. Spores come into your house by windows, other entrances and can also be brought in on shoes and clothing. While most fungus around your house aren't dangerous, black mold can cause illness if neglected.

What are the Health Risks?

The spores black mold produces are the main culprit behind black mold poisoning. Symptoms include chronic sneezing, eye, nose and throat irritation and 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 infestation. They can go ignored for weeks, and then appear virtually overnight. Once mold produces colonies in your living space, it immediately grows and discharges toxins that make life miserable for occcupants:

  • Mold emanates a pungent, mildewed smell that prevents rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold causes problems for allergy-sensitive individuals, as well as those with asthma, causing a physical reaction.
  • Mold can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
  • Mold toxins can trigger chronic inflammation and constant cold-like symptoms.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems can get systemic infections of the lungs, skin, or digestive tract.
  • In rare instances, mold toxins can cause neurological problems or even death.
  • The more extended the exposure, the greater the danger.
Unusually damp homes and offices can be vulnerable to mold infestations even if no water damage has occurred. If you see or smell something that could be mold, get an expert opinion immediately. If you want to eradicate mold, the atmosphere where it flourishes must first be eliminated. Water sources have to be handled, and any remaining moisture must be thoroughly dried out. Only then can mold elimination and remediation start. Whether a dripping roof, burst pipe, or other entry point, it isn't enough to curtail the tide. Moisture can soak hidden sections of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep coming back to these areas. Call Paul Davis today if your home has black mold. Our team analyzes for presence of black mold before remediation. You can rely on our specialists to eliminate black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, schedule a black mold inspection today.