How To Identify Black Mold

3/25/2020 (Permalink)

Mold infestation in an Aurora, IL home

If you suspect mold in your home, you may need to perform a mold inspection. There are many types of mold. Some are harmless, while others can be toxic and lead to health problems for people and pets. Mold needs to be cleaned and removed as quickly as possible to avoid it spreading. When you find mold in your home in Aurora, IL, there are a few things you can do to determine what type it is.

Ways To Identify Black Mold

Stachybotrys Atra, also known as black mold, feeds off of moisture. It generally has certain characteristics that can help you identify it:

• It gives off a musky odor
• It may look slimy
• It is dark greenish-black or grey
  

This type of house mold releases mycotoxins that can cause health effects. A mold inspection will help identify the type of mold you have and find any that may be hidden in unseen places.

Where You Might Find It

Black mold spores are dampened downward, so they do not travel through the air as easily as other varieties. Since they are less airborne, they are unlikely to spread from room to room. However, they can multiply and grow rapidly on porous surfaces. Mold can be found anywhere there is moisture. Some of the most common areas are bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. It may take up residence on the drywall in your bathroom and then spread quickly. Ceiling tiles, carpet and wood paneling or furniture are also prone to mold growth. Mold can invade ventilation systems. If you smell a musky odor when the system is running, you should mention this to your mold inspector.
If a mold inspection verifies that you have a mold problem, you will need to hire a professional mold remediation company to clear your house of the infestation. Professionals may use specialized equipment to rid your home of the problem and return it to its previous condition.