Do You Know Black Mold?

Every homeowner fears black mold, but what is it? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold grows in wet environments and is most commonly seen in areas where condensation has collected or near untreated puddles inside. These spores enter the home via doors, other entrances and can also be tracked on shoes and coats. Although most molds in your home aren't dangerous, black mold leads to illness after long term exposure.

Signs of Black Mold Exposure

The spores black mold releases are the main culprit behind black mold poisoning. The most common 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 serious cases of long term exposure.

About Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never postpone calling a professional to inspect for mold growth. They can go ignored for weeks, and then appear virtually overnight. Once mold produces colonies in your living space, it quickly grows and releases toxins that make life unpleasant for inhabitants:

  • Mold emits a strong, musty scent that prevents rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold causes serious problems for allergy-sensitive people, as well as those with asthma, making symptoms flare up.
  • Mold can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
  • Mold toxins can cause long-lasting inflammation and ongoing cold-like symptoms.
  • People 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 prolonged the exposure, the greater the danger.
Unusually damp 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 an expert opinion immediately. To get rid of mold, the atmosphere where it flourishes must first be removed. Water sources have to be dealt with, and any remaining moisture must be efficiently dried out. Only then can mold removal and remediation start. Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other opening, it isn't enough to curtail the tide. Moisture can saturate out-of-sight portions of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep coming back to these spots. Call Paul Davis now if you think your home contains black mold. We safely test and confirm the existence of black mold before starting treatment. You can rely on our professionals to remove black mold effectively. Don't risk your health, get an inspection for black mold now.