Call Paul Davis: Do You Know Black Mold?

Every homeowner dreads black mold, but what is it? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold grows in wet areas and is often seen around condensation or pools or standing water inside. Spores enter the house via doors, small openings and can also be brought in on shoes and coats. While most molds in your house are harmless, this variety leads to health issues if left untreated.

What are the Health Risks?

Black mold is a toxic species of mold with airborne toxins. The most common symptoms include chronic coughing, eye, nose and throat irritation and rashes. Additionally, chronic fatigue and persistent headaches can all be symptomatic of black mold exposure or black mold poisoning. Especially severe occasions of long-term contact to black mold can be more life threatening. Paired with an allergic reaction to the black mold spores, these symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose.

Information about Mold

Mold quickly spread across walls, floors and ceilings. Whenever your home suffers water damage, you should have a Paul Davis technician check the walls for mold infestations. They can go unnoticed for weeks, and then appear virtually overnight. Once mold produces colonies in your living space, it quickly breeds and releases toxins that make life miserable for inhabitants:

  • Mold releases a pungent, mildewed scent that stops rooms from smelling fresh.
  • Mold causes serious problems for allergy-sensitive people, as well as those with asthma, causing a physical reaction.
  • A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.
  • Mold toxins can activate chronic inflammation and ongoing 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 concerns or even death.
  • The more extended 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 right away. If you want to eradicate mold, the environment where it prospers must first be eliminated. Water sources have to be handled, and any residual moisture must be thoroughly dried out. Only then can mold removal and remediation start. Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other opening, it isn't enough to stem the tide. Moisture can saturate hidden portions of your home. Without proper cleanup procedures, mold will keep returning to these areas. If you think your house may be growing black mold, speak with Paul Davis today. We safely inspect and confirm the existence of black mold before removal. You can depend on our professionals to remove black mold effectively. Don't risk your health, call for a black mold inspection today.