This article will teach you about the nine most frequent varieties of mold in the house, as well as how they might damage your health. Household mold is an all-too-common phenomenon that can cause severe problems for those who live with it.
Whether you’re seeking for mold remediation or mold prevention, this article will provide you with a greater understanding of the numerous varieties of mold, how they might impact you or your family, and how mycotoxins (toxic substances produced by mold) can result in the need for mold remediation.
The Impact of Mold on Human Health
It is critical to identify and remove dangerous mold as soon as possible. Mold may be very hazardous and have long-term impacts on your family’s health, depending on the type of mold and the severity and length of exposure. Mold is especially dangerous to people with pre-existing diseases or weakened immune systems.
What are the 6 Most Common Mold Types in the Home?
Here are the six most prevalent varieties of mold in the house, as well as some of the most deadly molds that you never want to have in your home.
Penicillium/Aspergillus
While many molds require active water intrusion, penicillium /aspergillus can thrive either in dry conditions or with moderate humidity. The human impact from this mold may include allergy-type symptoms such as hay fever and asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and various respiratory irritations and infections. It is most commonly found growing on household dust, wallpaper and wallpaper glue, fabrics (including carpet), and moist building materials. Colonies may range in color from gray to white, plus various shades of blue or green.
Cladosporium
Cladosporium can also thrive in either dry or humid conditions but is most commonly found at sites with high humidity, such as shower curtains and showers, hot-water pipes, and beneath sinks. It is black but may also appear in shades of green. Cladosporium can cause several health issues, including hay fever, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and skin and eye infections.
Alternaria
As an allergenic mold, Alternaria can cause hay fever-type allergies and asthma. When found on building materials and fabrics, it can also cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This mold grows best in high humidity areas such as shower walls and may appear in gray, brown, or black shades.
Rhizopus
Rhizopus grows best in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms and basements, but can also survive in low-humidity areas. Rhizopus is associated with toxic shock syndrome, an infection of the digestive system, and respiratory infections. It can appear in shades of gray or pink, sometimes with black spots. While it can grow in warm areas, it will not grow in places that are not damp.
Fusarium
Fusarium grows best in damp conditions, such as bathrooms, basements, and shower walls, and can survive in drier climates with moisture. Its colonies appear in shades of pink, brown, or orange. Fusarium has been found to cause skin and eye infections and liver, kidney, and spleen damage.
Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys is one of the most common, harmful, and dangerous types of household mold. It can be found in room corners and other warm, damp areas and can appear in black, blue-green, or yellow shades. This mold can grow almost anywhere in humid conditions but is most commonly found in areas with high humidity, such as roofs, drains, walls, and floors. It is toxic and can cause several health issues, particularly in infants and children.
Conclusion
Mold can pose a significant health risk to those in your home. Be sure to check any wet or damp areas of your home, such as tubs and showers, and fix any moisture issues you may find. If you are experiencing any symptoms that you believe may be related to mold, consider contacting a mold inspector who can test and identify the mold in your home and offer solutions for removing the mold.
Environmental Mold is a leading full-service mold and indoor air quality consulting firm specializing in indoor air quality inspections / consulting services and professional mold removal since its inception in 2001. We provide commercial and residential mold remediation solutions, property evaluations, and repair cost estimates, interpreting third-party protocols while managing remediation projects from start to finish. Reach out to us today at 949-333-3998 to schedule a service!