What is Black Mold?

No homeowner wants black mold, but do you know what it is? Black mold (also known as Stachybotrys) grows in wet spots and is usually seen around condensation or pools or standing water inside. Spores come into your home via windows, other openings and can also be brought in on personal items and clothing. Although most fungus around your home aren't dangerous, black mold can cause illness with years of exposure.

Black Mold Poisoning

The spores black mold produces are the major cause behind black mold poisoning. 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. Nausea, vomiting and bleeding in the lungs and nose are seen in the most serious cases of long term exposure.

More 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 practically overnight. Once mold creates colonies in your property, it immediately breeds and releases toxins that make life difficult for occcupants:

  • Mold emits a strong, 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.
  • A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.
  • Mold toxins can cause 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 concerns or even death.
  • The more extended the exposure, the greater the danger.
Exceptionally 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 an expert opinion right away. To get rid of mold, the setting where it thrives must first be removed. Water sources have to be dealt with, and any remaining moisture must be carefully dried out. Only then can mold elimination and remediation start. Whether a dripping roof, burst pipe, or other opening, it isn't enough to stem the tide. Moisture can saturate hidden areas of your home. Without proper cleanup processes, mold will keep coming back to these areas. If you think your home may contain black mold, speak with Paul Davis today. We safely inspect and confirm the existence of black mold before starting treatment. Depend on our specialists to eliminate black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, call for a black mold inspection today.