Mold is a fungus that can grow almost anywhere and everywhere. It is important to know what type of mold you are dealing with to properly treat the problem area. Each one has different characteristics and can grow in specific areas in your house. Although not all molds can be harmful, the ones that are can be classified as:
- Allergenic: Causes asthma attacks brought by the allergens they are producing.
- Pathogenic: Causes complications for people suffering from acute diseases.
- Toxigenic: Also known as “toxic mold”, can be dangerous and can even lead to death.
These are some of the different types of common molds that you may have in your home:
- Acremonium
- Toxigenic
- Usually white, grey, pink or orange in color.
- Grows in window sealants, drain pans, or humidifiers.
- Aspergillus
- Allergenic, can be toxigenic depending on the species
- May appear in many colors
- Commonly found in American households
- Chaetomium
- Pathogenic
- Cotton-like. Changes from white to gray to brown and black after a long time.
- Seen in damp areas and can be recognized by its musty odor.
- Cladosporium
- Allergenic
- Texture is suede-like, usually brown or olive-green in color
- Can be found in materials inside the home such as carpets, upholsteries and fabrics
- Fusarium
- Allergenic, can be toxigenic
- Usually reddish, pink or white in color
- Grows on households with water damage and can typically be seen on carpets, fabrics and wallpapers, but can also grow in composts and food products.
- Mucor
- Allergenic
- Thick patches of grey or white
- Usually grows near HVAC systems, air conditioning and ducting caused by condensation.
- Alternaria
- Most common allergenic mold
- Appears as brown or dark green hairs with a velvet texture
- Commonly found in leaking sinks, bathtubs and showers.
You can do a couple of things to remedy these types of molds:
- Locate It: Check the mentioned areas above to make sure that you do not have it in your home.
- Avoid and Discard Moldy Materials: If an item cannot be cleaned anymore, it is better to discard it to avoid the spread of mold in other areas of your home.
But if the mold present in your home is of a larger scale, contacting a certified mold inspector is the best thing to do. Not sure, get sure: Give us a call today!
