What is Black Mold?
What is Black Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that forms dust-like structures made up of fungal spores. While mold can appear in various colors—including white, green, and brown—the term “black mold” is used when these patches are black. It’s a common misconception that black mold is a specific type of organism. In reality, it is a descriptive term for mold caused by several different species of fungi.
For mold to thrive, it requires specific conditions: a source of food (like wood or drywall), dampness with high humidity, warmth, and a lack of direct sunlight. This makes areas like bathrooms, basements, and rooms with a history of water damage ideal environments for mold growth.The black mold that causes the most concern is a specific species called Stachybotrys chartarum. This fungus is often referred to as “toxic black mold” because, under certain conditions, it can produce harmful chemicals called mycotoxins.
The Health Risks of Mold Exposure
While the dangers of black mold are often sensationalized, the health risks are very real and should not be underestimated. Exposure to any type of mold can cause serious health problems, particularly for individuals with sensitive health conditions.
The color of the mold is not a reliable indicator of its danger. Even non-toxic molds can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues. The primary health concern from all mold exposure comes from inhaling fungal spores, which can lead to:
- Allergy Symptoms: Stuffy nose, wheezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and headaches.
- Asthma Attacks: Mold spores are a common trigger for asthma attacks, especially in individuals with severe asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).
The more severe and less understood health effects are linked to exposure to mycotoxins from S. chartarum. Although scientific evidence is still developing, mycotoxin exposure has been associated with neurological issues, severe fatigue, dizziness, and other non-allergic symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides further information on the potential health effects of mold.
How to Identify and Remove Black Mold
Identifying a mold infestation is crucial for building safety. A musty, earthy smell is a common sign of mold, even if you can’t see it. Visible black, green, or brown patches on walls and ceilings, especially in damp areas, are also strong indicators.
If mold growth is small and caught early, it can sometimes be cleaned using household agents such as hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or baking soda. However, it is essential to use personal protective equipment, including a face mask with HEPA protection, eye protection, and gloves, to minimize exposure to spores.
For larger infestations or if you suspect toxic mold, it is crucial to call in professionals. Trying to clean a large area yourself can disturb the mold and release millions of spores, making the problem worse and increasing health risks.
A lasting solution to a mold problem requires more than just cleaning the surface. Experts will not only remove all traces of the mold but also identify and fix the root cause, such as a water leak, to prevent the problem from recurring. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a comprehensive guide on mold remediation in commercial buildings.
How Common Is Black Mold?
Mold is incredibly common in many parts of the United States. Some stats indicate that a whopping 70% of all homes suffer from some form of mold damage. The most common species of mold is Cladosporium. The risk of the black mold is very high in areas that suffer from frequent flooding.
Buildings with faulty/outdated plumbing systems are also at an elevated risk of getting mold infestations. It’s much more common than most people anticipate. Mold can thrive in high humidity on surfaces that contain wood/wood pulp. Since these materials are more commonly used in homes (wood paneling, drywall, carpet, and the list continues) they are more vulnerable to mold infestations.
But even though concrete does not contain any food source, black mold can still survive on moisture and the dust that accumulates in office buildings and other commercial buildings.
How To Remove Black Mold From Buildings?
If you catch them early, smaller stains of black mold growth can be cleaned with domestic equipment and cleaning agents. Along with buckets, sponges, and mops, don’t forget to use face masks (preferably with HEPA protection), eye protection, and gloves to keep fungal spore exposure to a minimum.
Potentially effective household cleaning agents include:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Bleach
- Borax
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Detergents
Some of these materials, like bleach and hydrogen peroxide, are quite harsh and can produce fumes. Always keep the work area well-ventilated, if possible. Unfortunately, most cases of black mold are discovered at an advanced stage, where the fungus has spread across a larger surface area. This can happen as it only takes a few days for the fungi to expand, under the right conditions. In situations of this kind, there is only one option: call in the experts.
Get In Touch With The Experts Of Facility Maintenance And Commercial Cleaning
A lasting solution to a toxic indoor mold problem will elude you as long as you don’t remove the source of the moisture. This is where the expert facility maintenance and cleaning teams at Servi-Tek can make a huge difference.
Our mold experts will remove all traces of the mold and also prevent the recurrence of the problem by analyzing the root cause – usually a leak or some other form of water exposure. To learn more about our services, call today at (866) 454-6185 or complete our online contact form.
