What Does Black Mold Look Like

Mold grows naturally in a variety of places, but you don’t want to find it in your home. Unfortunately, many people discover that they have black mold growing in their home each year. In some cases, people delay eradicating the mold because they are uncertain about what exactly the black spots are. What does black mold look like, and what can you do about it?

What Is Black Mold?

There are actually several types of black mold, but the type that most people are referring to when they talk about toxic black mold is S. chartarum. This type of fungus prefers to grow on cellulose surfaces. These are surfaces that are made out of drywall, wood products or paper products.

While you don’t want any type of mold in your home, it is important to test black mold before treating it. Extra steps should be taken to remove toxic black mold for your safety and to prevent the mold from spreading.

Characteristics of Black Mold

In addition to being black, S. chartarum has a fuzzy or slimy look. While this mold can be pure black, it can also be greenish black or grayish black. Black mold has an unpleasant, rotting or decaying smell. You can also identify black mold by where it grows. Look for it in areas that are or have been damp.

Where Does Black Mold Grow?

Black mold spores float in the air and settle on various surfaces. When they land in a damp, humid area, they quickly thrive and spread. Mold often grows in homes due to plumbing leaks, roof damage, condensation, or other moisture issues.

You’ll commonly find it in bathrooms, laundry rooms, attics, basements, or any spot affected by leaks or excess moisture. It can also hide in less obvious places, like under carpets or inside walls. Many people don’t realize they have mold until they pull up flooring or begin renovating their home.

Difference Between Black Mold and Other Mold Types

While all types of mold can cause property damage, black mold produces mycotoxins. Inhaling these mycotoxins can lead to serious health problems. Other types of mold can cause health symptoms as well, but they are typically milder. You can also differentiate black mold from other types of mold by their color. For example, other types of mold can be green, blue, pink, red or other colors.

Health Symptoms Linked to Black Mold Exposure

Toxic black mold can cause serious health issues. Long-term exposure can trigger asthma and other chronic respiratory symptoms. Those who struggle with autoimmune conditions have an increased risk of lung disease, chronic fatigue, fungal infections, memory loss and even some types of cancer.

You can even get sick from your first exposure. Symptoms of exposure include a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, a rash, nosebleeds and headaches.

What to Do If You Find Black Mold

• Do a mold test. You can purchase a mold testing kit at your local home improvement store or schedule a professional test.
• Professional mold remediation is necessary for large areas of toxic black mold. If you choose to clean the mold yourself, invest in protective eyewear, gloves and an N95 mask.
• When cleaning mold. The spores will be dislodged and become airborne. Always cover the air vents and seal off the room before removing the mold to prevent unintentional spread.
• Invest in a special mold killing product, or get a bottle of bleach. Get a large trash bag as well.
• Wearing your safety gear, wipe down the area with diluted bleach and either a sponge or scrub brush.
• When the mold is gone, toss your cleaning supplies in the trash bag. Do not walk through your home with the supplies unless the bag is sealed.
• After the surface is completely dry, spray the area with a 50-50 solution of water and white vinegar.

Preventing Black Mold Growth

Prevent black mold growth by tackling moisture issues right away. Fix leaky pipes as soon as you notice them, and inspect your roof every year or after major storms. Schedule repairs immediately if needed.

Use a sump pump to control basement moisture, and dry wet areas without delay. Improve ventilation by running a dehumidifier or turning on fans in the laundry room and bathrooms. Stay proactive with annual HVAC inspections, and keep cellulose or absorbent items out of damp spaces. Make a habit of wiping down the shower after every use to stop mold from forming.

Cleaning your home is a significant undertaking that impacts your family’s health, so you cannot afford to overlook or skim over any chores. Whether you need post-construction cleaning or help with weekly chores, our Cleanzen pros are eager to help. To learn more about our services and schedule your first cleaning, contact us today.