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6 Types of Harmful Mold That May Be Lurking in Your Home Stachybotrys. Commonly referred to as “black mold,” stachybotrys is one of the most dangerous types of mold and can cause flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, headaches, memory loss and severe respiratory damage. Chaetomium. Aspergillus. Penicillium. Fusarium. Alternaria.
What type of mold is dangerous?
The toxigenic molds are the misnamed “toxic mold” species that may create the chemical metabolic byproducts called mycotoxins, which can cause a toxic response in humans and animals. Mycotoxins are separate from the spores molds produce for reproduction.
How can you tell if mold is toxic?
7 Signs You Might Have Toxic Mold In Your Home There’s A Smell. One of the first things you might notice is a musty smell. You Have A Chronic Cough. You Have Skin Rashes. You Are Having Trouble Focusing. You Feel Fatigued. The Walls Are Discolored. You See Stains.
What is the most toxic mold?
Black mold is the most commonly well-known name of toxic mold among the public. It’s called black mold simply because of its color and appearance.
What kind of mold is not dangerous?
The most common black mold is Cladosporium, which has no known toxic side effects. This type of mold is common both inside and outside of the home.
What color mold is bad for you?
Contrary to popular belief, black mold is not the only harmful type of mold for people and pets. While black mold may seem more dangerous, its green counterpart is just as likely to cause health issues. In fact, all molds — green, black, or other colors — can cause health problems, especially to sensitive people.
How can you tell if mold is in the walls?
Most mold is unmistakable, but sometimes small or largely hidden growths just make a surface look dirty. A quick test for mold can be done when you dip a swab in diluted bleach (1 part bleach, 16 parts water) and dab it on the wall. If the spot quickly lightens (or keeps coming back after cleaning), assume it’s mold.
Can I stay in my house with black mold?
Can I Stay in My House With Black Mold? It is recommended that you stay somewhere clear of mold spores until all black mold has been removed from your home. This is because black mold is toxic and can cause immediate health issues and result in long-term consequences.
What does black mold smell like?
It’s often described as musty and earthy, and may even smell like rotting vegetables or plants. You might notice a musty smell, but not be able to see any mold growing. If you’re smelling mold in a usually dry area, you might have water damage or a leaking pipe.
How serious is mold in a house?
MOLD can cause health problems that range from itching eyes, sneezing and coughing to serious allergic reactions, asthma attacks and even permanent lung damage. And what many people do not know is that mold could be growing in their homes right now.
What does toxic black mold look like?
Look for visible growth: While toxic mold often hides in your walls, crawlspace, or attic, sometimes it is out in the open, too. Toxic mold can also have a grayish, soot-like texture, or a slimy, wet surface. In some cases, you may even notice furry orange or brown spots.
How do you know if mold is making you sick?
If they come into contact with mold, they may experience symptoms, such as: a runny or blocked nose. watery, red eyes. a dry cough.
How can you tell the difference between mold and black mold?
While other types of mold may have a fuzzy, light texture, black mold will usually be slimy or wet. Some early forms of black mold have a powdery feel. Rub the mold with a paper towel to determine the texture, but be sure to wear gloves, a face mask, coveralls, and safety goggles when going near mold.
Can I remove black mold myself?
If the black mold growth in your home is small enough for you to treat alone, a simple mixture of bleach and water can help. Add one cup of bleach to one gallon of water and apply it to the moldy spots. Apply the cleaner to the mold spot and scrub away the growth. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly when you’re done.
Is it safe to stay in a house with mold?
Because of the risks that come with mold exposure, it can be unsafe to sleep in a house with mold, particularly in the affected areas because you put yourself at risk of mold allergies. This becomes especially concerning if you are sensitive to the mold. When mold grows indoors, it can often be found in the bathroom.
What kills black mold instantly?
White distilled vinegar is an affordable, natural solution to removing black mold. Its antibacterial acidic characteristics are exactly what you need to get the job done. Pour the undiluted vinegar into a spray bottle to apply to the area, or just go for it and pour that vinegar right onto the mold stains.
How quickly can mold make you sick?
These spores proliferate quickly and can take hold in places with poor ventilation and high humidity in less than 24 hours. The problem starts when you inhale these spores. They produce toxic substances known as mycotoxins that can produce an immune response in some individuals and actually extremely toxic themselves.
How do you know if mold is behind drywall?
Discoloration and Stains As such, if you spot water stains on your walls, then it is likely that there’s mold growing behind them. Water stains can be yellow or brown in color, so look out for such colors on your wall. If the spots are damp, then that’s an obvious sign of moisture problems as well.
How do you know if your house is toxic?
Key Signs Your House May Have Toxic Mold Dormant allergies or allergic reactions. Aggravated asthma or other lung problems. Discolored walls. Stains. Black spots.
What are the symptoms of living in a house with mold?
Symptoms of mold sensitivity sneezing. nasal congestion. runny nose. skin rash. itching. watery eyes. asthma. chest tightness.
How long does it take to detox from mold?
It can take 24 to 48 hours to properly ventilate and dry the area. If you suspect mold in your HVAC system, turn off your heating and cooling system and contact an HVAC professional immediately.
When should you see a doctor for mold exposure?
Symptoms of mold exposure are not usually an emergency, but in some instances, you should seek immediate medical treatment. Go directly to the nearest emergency room or call 911 if you: Have significant trouble breathing. Have an asthma attack that doesn’t respond to your usual medication or seems worse than usual.
