Toxic Black Mold Symptoms and Removal

Black Mold Symptoms and Removal

2010-03-02T06:02:00.000-08:00

Black mold or toxic black mold is a fungus that grows on cellulose materials in damp conditions. Humid conditions and a warm temperature with a source of food allows any mold to thrive. Toxic black mold is one species of mold that is dangerous because it releases a toxin called mycotoxin into the air which can cause serious health problems when inhaled. Toxic black mold symptoms are detailed below. It grows on damp walls, insulation, wood, paper, carpets and any other surface that provides a source of food. If you have very extensive infestation black mold removal needs to be done by professionals. Mold can also grow inside equipment, for instance air-conditioners that provide a humid environment. Anywhere that water is leaking to form damp surfaces, for instance around broken pipes and leaking roofs, also provides ideal growing conditions.

Toxic Black Mold Symptoms

Some of the signs that you may have black mold include:

Moisture on surfaces, for instance in a damp cellar or a poorly ventilated bathroom.
Stains on the walls that are green, black or brown indicate that mold is growing.
A musty smell especially in damp or humid surfaces.
Respiratory symptoms in people living in the house. This includes wheezing, sneezing, coughing that doesn't go away.

Toxic Black Mold Poisoning Symptoms

Symptoms of black mold poisoning vary considerably, although initially they are mostly confined to problems with the respiratory system. persistence coughing, sneezing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, especially if it clears when away from the infected area is often the first sign. Prolonged exposure to black mold can lead to many other symptoms including memory loss, lack of concentration, critique, blood pressure problems, asthma, rashes and hives, damage to the digestive and respiratory tracks and more.

Black Mold Prevention and Control

The most important thing is to prevent black mold from growing list to keep the humidity level low. Any leak from pipes or roofs should be fixed immediately. Condensation, for instance in the bathroom or from vents from clothes dryers or air conditioning should be attended to by ventilating properly or by making sure vents lead to the outside. proper maintenance of air conditioners with regular cleaning should be done to prevent mold forming in these systems. Wash shower curtain, tiles etc. in the bathroom regularly to prevent mold from growing. Use paint that has antifungal ingredients in any areas that are prone to dampness.

Black Mold Removal

It is important when removing black mold that you do not breathe in the mold spores which will be released when it is disturbed. Wear proper protective clothing and masks. Other black mold in the house needs to be removed including a growing inside appliances and walls that is not visible at first sight. If you're toxic black mold infestation is heavy it is advisable to get professional help to do this.

Toxic Black Mold Removal

2010-03-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

The spores from the mold are very toxic you need to be very careful when you are attempting black mold removal. Always wear proper protective clothing including breathing masks and gloves. If the area of black mold growth is reasonably small you can attempt removes all yourself but for very large areas you need professional advice. It is also important that you not only remove the visible black mold that you remove any mold in hidden places, for instance in air conditioning ducts and the insulation in walls. In addition any sources of dampness which have allowed the mold to grow need to be addressed.

Identify Damp Areas

Anywhere that moisture has accumulated needs to be fixed to prevent regrowth of the mold. Condensation in bathrooms can allow the mold to grow and shower curtains and other surfaces so consider putting in some proper ventilation. Identify any leaks from items or in the roof and fix them. If you have high humidity in your area consider using a dehumidifier as mold thrives when the humidity is above about 55%. if you have had flooding water leaking then you need to dry out the walls, floor or ceiling properly using fans or other means to ensure the mold does not regrow. Black mold germinates and grows very quickly so the sooner you think any of these problems less damage you will have.

Preventing Black Mold Spores From Spreading

Before you begin black mold removal you need to consider how you are going to prevent any spores release due in the cleaning from traveling to other areas. The room needs to be properly contacting before you start. Clean each room or area one at a time sealing them off as best you can before you start. This includes shutting doors and windows and blocking any ventilation. Airborne spores can easily move between areas so you do not want to stir them and cause problems in areas that are not infected. Plastic sheeting, sealed using duct tape, spacecan be used to cover vents, under doors and any other openings. If you have any ventilation systems turn them off before you start to clean. Dust levels need to be kept as low as possible during cleaning so try not to stir up dust more than necessary.

Black Mold Removal

To prevent mold spores from becoming airborne use a light mist of water on the area to be cleaned before you start. Thoroughly clean the area with soap to remove as much of the mold as you can then treat the area with a disinfectant specially made to kill mold. Do not confine yourself just to areas where there is visible mole as tiny mold spores can be on any surface. Once surface areas are clean a need to be thoroughly dried. Non-porous materials, such as glass, metals and hard plastics and semi-porous materials such as concrete, wood etc. that have been cleaned and are still intact can be reused. Porous materials may have been so heavily damaged that they need to be replaced although if the damage is not too noticeable they can be reused after cleaning. This includes material such as installation, clothes, paper, ceiling tiles, soft furnishings, carpets etc.

Removal of Contaminated Materials

Any material that is infected with mold and cannot be reused needs to be discarded properly. Use heavy-duty plastic garbage bags and try to take them straight outside, perhaps through the window, rather than transporting them through the house where contamination of other areas may occur. Dispose on them properly in a land fill.

Prevention of Black Mold Regrowth

Most importantly, as we have already said and repeat here as it is vitally important, you must make sure that the conditions that allowed the black mold to grow in the first place are dealt with. This mainly means ensuring there are no damp areas where the mold can grow. Deal with any condensation problems also leaking from pipes or vents and be on the lookout for the first signs of any black mold regrowth and deal with it before it gets out of hand and you will not need to repeat black mold removal in the future.

What is Black Mold?

2010-01-01T16:57:00.000-08:00

Black mold or toxic black mold is a fungi called Stachybotrys chartarum which grows on damp material, that contain cellulose, such as paper, wood and drywall. Molds reproduce by releasing spores into the air which grow on any damp object they on which they land. There are thousands of different types of mold and they are ever present in the air. Most of them are not hazardous although some people are sensitive to the spores which can cause the respiratory problems. Black mold however is different as it produces mycotoxins which are toxic and can cause a whole range of health problems even in healthy people.

The floating spores are tiny and not visible to the naked eye and are only seen when they begin to grow. Black mold produces a slimy greenish black growth on damp wood and other cellulose containing materials and does not grow on tiles or cement as many other fungi do.

Black mold, like other molds, grows best in damp conditions so the places you might find it include damp basements, poorly ventilated bathrooms, around leaky water pipes, near leaky roofs and on the walls after flood damage. Exhaust fans and clothes dryer vents also could produce enough moisture to encourage the growth of mold if they're not vented properly. A serious risk arises in houses that have been flooded especially in areas where the temperature and humidity are high.

Not all molds are toxic but it is difficult to distinguish them without proper testing. It is essential therefore to remove any molds growing in your house before they spread too far. Even though molds may not be toxic they are still far from healthy to be breathing in constantly. Any signs of mold should be quickly dealt with. Mold spores can be transported very easily on animals, shoes, clothing etc. and they also come in on the breeze through doors and windows. The spores then settle on anywhere that is moist and grow rapidly. Black mold can grow on insulation, drywall, ceiling tiles, wall panelling, cardboard and many other places and can spread rapidly if not cleared up immediately. Damp basements that are not often visited can be a haven for the mold to grow.

Mold Detection is not hard if you know the symptoms to look out for that will alert you to black mold growing in your home. Black mold is a hazard and should be dealt with as quickly as possible before it causes serious health problems for your family.

Black Mold Prevention - Some Guidelines

2009-03-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

If you have had a black mold problem in the past it is essential that you take some steps to prevent recurrence. We've gathered together some tips to help you to do this.

Controlling the Humidity

The first and most important thing you can do is control the humidity in your home. Humidity levels above 55% will allow molds thrive so you need to be added to monitor the humidity properly and take steps to reduce it if it gets too high. Also be aware that you need to monitor different parts of your home or building as humidity can vary considerably in different areas. You will need a hygrometer to measure the humidity and you should periodically check the levels in bathrooms, basements and cellars, inside the walls, inside cabinets and closets and in areas where you store food.

If any areas that consistently above 55% humidity then you will need to use a dehumidifier to reduce this level until it is acceptable. small units can be used in closets and cabinets are you will need larger units if you are using them cellars basements or in the attic.

Water Leaks

Even if you do not live in an area of high humidity you could still have mold growing anywhere where there is water leaking and in fact, apart from high humidity areas, water leaks from pipes or from a high level of condensation other most common causes of the growth of black mold. Any leaking, it's should immediately be fixed and you can place insulation around cold water pipes to stop condensation occurring. Concealed pipes can leak for a considerable time before they are found, so if you see any signs of black mold growing look out for hidden pipes that may be leaking. A musty smell will also alert you to the fact that there is considerable moisture somewhere which is allowing molds and mildew used to grow. If you have problems with damp in your cellar or basement consider basement waterproofing by a professional contractor.

Water can also seep from the foundation so you need to make sure that your walls are properly sealed to prevent this. You can also prevent condensation in your home by keeping your home properly insulated and keeping the temperature of floors, windows, ceilings etc. at the same temperature as the air in your house.

Leaking Roofs

these can occur in roofs without you being aware of it allowing black mold to grow out of your sight. Make sure you inspect your roof regularly and deal with any leaks that may be occurring. Damaged chimneys are common cause of leaks into the attic and while you're inspecting your attic look out for any signs of water leaks such as stains on the ceiling or any other damage. Always check your roof at the end of winter and consider applying a waterproof coating if your roof is suitable.

Blocked Gutters

Gutters blocked by leaves or other debris can be a major source of moisture getting into your walls and causing problems. regularly clean out the gutters especially during the fall and try adding mesh covers to prevent debris from entering. Make sure that the exits from the downspouts do not allow water to enter your foundations. Splash blocks can be used to divert water or away from your walls and foundations.

Basements and Cellars

Basements and cellars are notorious for growing black mold that they may not be visited for many months at a time. make sure your basement is well ventilated and consider having it waterproof professionally. Ensure you inspect regularly for any signs of water intrusion ot growth of any mold.

Conclusion

Regular inspection of all the places in your home that are not regularly visited is essential to prevent mold from forming. Always repair any leaks and do not allow moisture to sit anywhere for any length of time. In this way you can prevent problems associated with black mold from affecting your family and visitors.

Black Mold Pictures

2009-03-04T06:51:00.000-08:00

What does black mold look like? Here are some black mold pictures to show you just what you should be looking for. If you suspect ypou have black mold get a professional opinion and test done especially if it is as extensive as in the pictures shown here.

All the black mold pictures below can be found at Flickr.

Other images from the photographers can be found using the links below each picture. Thanks to the people who made these images available through a Creative Commons License.

Image by nolageek

Image by taurusaficionado

Image by sarahfelicity

Image by bradjward
Katrina Clean Up

Black Mold Health Effects

2009-03-01T17:53:00.000-08:00

Black mold heath effects can be very serious and you should be aware of the symptoms so that you can take immediate action if you or your family are at risk. Molds grow everywhere that conditions are suitable and mold spores can always be found in dust in the home and in the workplace. Large quantities of spores in the air we breathe can lead to a respiratory problems and allergic reactions.

Some molds also produce mycotoxins which can cause neurological problems if present in high quantities or if exposure is prolonged. Living in a house all working in an area with a high level of mycotoxins in the air is a serious risk. One also molds a release of mycotoxins is Stachybotrys chartarum, otherwise known as black mold or toxic black mold.

Some black mold health effects include:

Respiratory problems such as trouble breathing, asthma, wheezing or shortness of breath.
Persistence coughing
Persistent sneezing
Sore throats
Ear, nose and throat problems
Bronchitis
Sinus problems
Irritation in the eyes and watery itchy eyes
Skin rashes
Mood swings
Memory impairment
Chronic fatigue
Fever

Some people can tolerate quite a high quantity of spores in the environment but others, typically those who already have a respiratory problem suffer ill effects at a much lower level. Also anyone with a weakened immune system, for instance the elderly or those undergoing some medical treatments, as well as children may be more susceptible to problems caused by exposure to mycotoxins. If you suspect that's you have a health problem that is made worse by mold exposure you should see your doctor straight away.

Conclusion

Health problems caused by exposure to black mold can be serious and should always be taken seriously. You should take steps to make sure your home is not a haven for mold to grow by always repairing leaky pipes and other sources of water immediately.

About Us

2008-02-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

Toxic Black Mold Symptoms and Removal has been set up to provide you with information about toxic black mold symptoms and removal. We hope you find some interesting and informative. Please use the form below if you wish to contact us.

Privacy Policy

2008-02-27T12:59:00.000-08:00

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Updated February 11, 2008

Toxic Black Mold Symptoms and Removal

Black Mold Symptoms and Removal