24/7 Emergency ServiceDon't Let it Spread: Common Types of Mold
7/18/2018 (Permalink)
Let's face it. Mold can grow almost anywhere, and a comfortable house is one of the prime locations for mold to thrive. However, knowing what you're looking for can help you stop the spread and damage that mold can cause.
Below are the five most common household molds:
- Alternaria
Alternaria is a large spore mold that can cause health effects. This mold starts out as dark or gray spots which start to spread quickly.
Where to look for it in your house:
-carpets
-textiles
-house dust
-damp areas (i.e., window frames and showers)
- Plants, trees. grasses, and soil
What to look for inside your home:
-dark or gray spots which are spreading
-musty smell
It's safe to say that Alternaria, while it is typically found outside, can easily wind up in your home. If you have any suspicions about mold being in your home contact SERVPRO® of Port Jefferson at 516-733-1800.
- Aspergillus
This mold is generally found in warmer climates where water damage has occurred. However, this mold can grow in extremely damp environments and has been found in household dust and compost piles.
"Though only a lab test can truly verify the identity any variety of mold, you can suspect that mold is from the Aspergillus genus if it has a powdery texture and an extremely high growth rate" (IndoorDoctor, 2016).
- Cladosporium
This fungus is common outdoors but can enter your home through the HVAC and airflow entryways. When indoors, this mold can grow on textiles, wood and other porous locations with a damp environment. Whether it is growing indoors or outdoors Cladosporium can cause health affects.
Where to look:
-Wallpaper
-Carpets
What to look for:
-black, brown, or green spots
These spots will start out small, but if left alone will keep growing.
- Penicillium
Penicillium is one of the most common molds indoors and outdoors.The Penicillium that we have all known are the types that cause food decay. When food starts to rot, we can easily see Penicillium appear to start the decomposing.
Where to look:
-Wallpaper
-Wallpaper glue
-Decaying fabrics
-Carpet
-Interior fiberglass duct insulation
Since this mold is prevalent, if there is a leak in your roof it would be essential to have someone inspect for mold.
- Stachybotrys
The harder the name is to pronounce, the more toxic the mold is. Stachybotrys is a type of black mold that causes significant health effects. However, this mold is the least common in households and needs plenty of running water to grow and is easily identifiable with its black and slimy texture.
Help your home stay safe by staying educated. For more information about mold, fire, hurricane, and water damage safety go to SERVPRO.com. If you are concerned about mold in your home call SERVPRO® of Port Jefferson at 516-733-1800.
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