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
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.
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.
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