Combating Black Mold

No homeowner wants black mold, but what is it? Black mold (also known as Stachybotrys) grows in wet environments and is often seen in areas where condensation has collected or where there's been water damage. These spores come into your home by windows, small entrances or brought in on shoes and clothing. While most fungus found in your home aren't dangerous, this variety can cause illness if ignored.

Risks Behind Black Mold Exposure

The spores black mold releases are the reason behind black mold poisoning. Symptoms include chronic sneezing, eye, nose and throat irritation as well as skin rashes. Other symptoms include chronic fatigue and persistent headaches. Especially serious occurances of prolonged exposure to black mold can be more life threatening. Paired with an allergic reaction to the black mold spores, these symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose.

Information about Mold

Black mold grows quickly, so you should never postpone calling a professional to inspect for mold infestation. They can go unnoticed for weeks, and then spring up essentially overnight. Once mold forms colonies in your living space, it quickly grows and releases toxins that make life miserable for occcupants:

  • Mold emits a strong, musty odor that stops rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold wreaks havoc on allergy-sensitive people, 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 chronic inflammation and ongoing cold-like symptoms.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems can get systemic infections of the lungs, skin, or digestive tract.
  • In rare cases, mold toxins can cause neurological issues or even death.
  • The more extended the exposure, the more severe the danger.
Exceptionally humid homes and offices can be subject to mold invasions even if no water damage has occurred. If you see or smell something that could be mold, get an expert opinion right away. To get rid of mold, the environment where it flourishes must first be removed. Water sources have to be handled, 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 entry point, it isn't enough to stem the tide. Moisture can drench out-of-sight portions of your home. Without proper cleanup processes, mold will keep coming back to these spots. Call Paul Davis today if your home contains black mold. We safely test and confirm the existence of black mold before starting treatment. You can rely on our contractors to remove black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, call for a black mold inspection today.