Do You Know Black Mold?

Every homeowner worries about black mold, but what is it? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold likes to grow in damp places and is often seen in areas where condensation has collected or pools or standing water inside. These spores enter the home via doors, small entrances and can also be tracked on personal items and clothing. Although most molds around your home aren’t dangerous, this variety leads to illness if ignored.

Health Effects of Black Mold

The spores black mold releases are the reason behind black mold poisoning. Symptoms include chronic sneezing, irritation to the eyes, mucus membranes of the nose and throat as well as skin rashes. In addition, chronic fatigue and persistent headaches can all be symptomatic of black mold exposure or black mold poisoning. Especially serious cases of long-term exposure to black mold can be more life threatening. Often compounded by allergic reaction to the black mold spores, these symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose.

About Mold

Mold quickly spread across walls, floors and ceilings. Whenever your home suffers water damage, you should have a Paul Davis technician check the walls for mold infestations. They can go unnoticed for weeks, and then spring up practically overnight.

Once mold creates colonies in your property, it quickly breeds and discharges toxins that make life miserable for inhabitants:

  • Mold releases a pungent, mildewed scent that stops rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold causes problems for allergy-sensitive people, as well as those with asthma, making symptoms flare up.
  • A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.
  • Mold toxins can cause long-lasting inflammation and constant cold-like symptoms.
  • Individuals with compromised 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 lengthy the exposure, the more severe the danger.

Exceptionally humid homes and offices can be vulnerable to mold invasions 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 atmosphere where it flourishes must first be removed. Water sources have to be dealt with, and any remaining moisture must be thoroughly dried out. Only then can mold removal and remediation start.

Whether a leaky 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 returning to these spots.

If you suspect your home may contain black mold, speak with Paul Davis now. Our team inspects for existence of black mold before treatment. Depend on our contractors to eliminate black mold quickly. Don’t risk your health, request a black mold inspection now.