Fighting Black Mold

Every homeowner fears black mold, but what is it? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold likes to grow in wet spots and is usually found around condensation or near untreated puddles inside. Spores enter the home by windows, small openings or brought in on shoes and clothing. While most molds around your home aren't dangerous, this species can cause health problems if ignored.

How Black Mold affects Health

The spores black mold produces are the reason behind black mold poisoning. The most common symptoms include chronic coughing, eye, nose and throat irritation as well as skin rashes. Other symptoms include chronic fatigue and persistent headaches. Nausea, vomiting and bleeding in the lungs and nose are seen in the most severe cases of long term exposure.

More about Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never delay calling a professional to inspect for mold growth. They can go unnoticed for weeks, and then spring up virtually overnight. Once mold forms colonies in your living space, it immediately breeds and releases toxins that make life difficult for inhabitants:

  • Mold emanates a strong, mildewed smell that prevents rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold causes problems for allergy-sensitive individuals, as well as those with asthma, making symptoms flare up.
  • A black mold infestation can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
  • Mold toxins can activate long-lasting inflammation and continuous cold-like symptoms.
  • People with compromised immune systems can get systemic infections of the lungs, skin, or digestive tract.
  • In rare instances, mold toxins can cause neurological problems or even death.
  • The more prolonged the exposure, the more severe the danger.
Exceptionally damp homes and offices can be subject to mold invasions even if no water damage has happened. If you see or smell something that could be mold, get a skillful opinion right away. To get rid of mold, the atmosphere where it prospers must first be eliminated. Water sources have to be dealt with, and any remaining moisture must be efficiently dried out. Only then can mold elimination and remediation start. Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other opening, it isn't enough to curtail the tide. Moisture can saturate hidden portions of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep coming back to these areas. If you are worried that your home may contain black mold, reach out to Paul Davis today. Our team inspects for presence of black mold before removal. Depend on our contractors to eliminate black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, get a black mold inspection today.