Do You Know Black Mold?

Every homeowner dreads black mold, but do you know why? Black mold (also known as Stachybotrys) likes to grow in wet places and is often found in areas where condensation has collected or near untreated puddles inside. Spores come into your house via doors, other openings and can also be tracked on shoes and clothing. Although most molds found in your house are nothing to worry about, this variety leads to health issues after years of exposure.

How Black Mold affects Health

The spores black mold produces are the main culprit behind black mold poisoning. Typically symptoms include chronic coughing, eye, nose and throat irritation and rashes. Other symptoms include chronic fatigue and persistent headaches. Nausea, vomiting and bleeding in the lungs and nose occur in the most severe cases of long term exposure.

More about Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never delay calling a professional to inspect for mold infestation. They can go unnoticed for weeks, and then appear essentially overnight. Once mold forms colonies in your living space, it quickly breeds and discharges toxins that make life unpleasant for residents:

  • Mold emanates a pungent, mildewed odor that prevents rooms from smelling fresh.
  • Mold causes serious problems for allergy-sensitive individuals, 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 ongoing cold-like symptoms.
  • Individuals with weakened 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.
Exceptionally humid 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. To get rid of mold, the setting where it thrives must first be removed. Water sources have to be handled, and any residual moisture must be thoroughly dried out. Only then can mold elimination and remediation start. Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other entry point, it isn't enough to stem the tide. Moisture can saturate out-of-sight sections of your home. Without proper cleanup procedures, mold will keep returning to these spots. If you think your house may contain black mold, contact Paul Davis today. Our team analyzes for existence of black mold before remediation. You can rely on our specialists to remove black mold quickly. Don't risk your health, schedule an inspection for black mold today.