GOT MOLD? Southern Utah Mold Guide
Southern Utah Mold Types
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common indoor molds are:
Many factors contribute to mold growth from simple water leaks, consistently wet shower tiles to poor ventilation. Each type of mold may require unique treatment. If you suspect MOLD in your home, don't guess, test. Call today to get your home tested to know exactly what you are breathing when your doors are closed.
Please continue reading below for an introduction to mold types and dangers...
1. Stachybotrys Chartarum (Black Toxic Mold)
Stachybotrys Chartarum, commonly referred to as black mold, is the most toxic mold type. It usually emits a musty odor and grows in damp areas of a home or business.
Appearance: black in color (although it can manifest as green or brown in some cases) and has a slimy texture with irregular edges, even appearing as speckled clusters. Produces a distinct musty odor that is easily detectable the more concentrated. It can grow behind drywall or where leaks have occurred.
Where Is It: Stachybotrys Chartarum grows on porous materials that experience constant moisture exposure such as shower tiles, leaky pipes in walls, or areas of frequent condensation such as bathrooms with inadequate ventilation.
Spread: While establishing mold beds, it also releases spores into the air, which can be absorbed through the skin or by inhalation of animals and humans.
Health Concern: Of all common molds, Black Mold is linked with the most toxic health problems. Exposure can cause hay fever-like symptoms (including nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, itchy throat, and sinus pressure), asthma attacks, sinus infections, fatigue and in some cases, depression. Young children, those with respiratory or immune system disorders and elderly are particularly susceptible to health problems caused by exposure to black mold; however, most people will experience a reaction of some sort if exposed to black mold. If you suspect black mold in your home, don't touch it. Close the door to the room and call us immediately.
2. Alternaria Alternata
Alternaria is most prevalent in warm, dry climates and can cause serious respiratory issues associated to asthma
Appearance: Dark in color, though rarely black. It has a downy or wool-like texture as it approaches maturity and starts to release spores
Where Is It: Considered most commonly as an outdoor mold, it can also grow indoors in areas with minimal moisture exposure especially duct work, upholstery and attic spaces. It has also been found near moisture damp spots like leaky pipes.
Spread: Primary pathway for spreading is release of airborne spores. The spores are quickly carried by wind, HVAC or movement past an active mold bed. Spores spread to find a suitable damp environment and germinate to start a new mold colony in as quick as 72 hours.
Health Concern: This mold is most likely to cause allergic reactions. From mild to extreme hay fever-like symptoms, exposure can cause lasting symptoms. Alternaria has been studied to show asthma development in some individuals over long term exposure. If you suspect Alternaria in your home, don't touch it. Close the door to the room and call us immediately.
3. Cladosporium Herbarum (Black Colored Mold)
Cladosporium is regarded as one of the most common molds. It has the propensity to invade indoor air space especially in areas of poor ventilation and excess humidity. Often mistaken for black mold due to its dark color, Cladosporium is actually a different type of mold entirely, with unique characteristics and lesser health risks compared to Stachybotrys Chartarum (Black Mold)
Appearance: Typically olive green to brown or even black in appearance, with a velvety texture.
Where Is It: Cladosporium usually travels great distances outdoors and grows on organic materials like plants, trees or organic decay. It enters the home through dirty shoes, open windows and doors, or pets. Once inside colonies begin to form on wooden or porous surfaces like carpeting, drapes, upholstery, and even insulation behind drywall.
Spread: Most common method of propagation is through airborne spores. When a mold bed is disturbed, the spores may sluff off and drift until they encounter new areas with even minimal moisture.
Health Concern: Mild to severe respiratory issues most commonly are associated with Cladosporium. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Cladosporium is often associated with dry skin on hands and face and in some cases, an allergic reaction in the form of a rash may occur with direct contact to skin. Those with chronic allergy symptoms are more likely to experience extreme dryness. If you suspect Cladosporium in your home, don't touch it. Close the door to the room and call us immediately.
4. Penicillium
Penicillium is the most common fungi found in the environment and is typically considered non-life-threatening to healthy humans. However, those with weak or compromised immune systems or exposure to more extreme molds, should be aware of its affects and try to avoid it whenever possible.
Appearance: Most commonly occurs in a green or blue structure and exhibits a tight, fuzzy texture.
Where Is It: Penicillium is normally found on rotting foods, fabrics, couch cushions, mattresses, carpet, insulation, wallpaper and even unwashed clothing.
Spread: Primary spread is through airborne spores. Colonization occurs extremely rapidly with the right conditions.
Health Concern: Exposure can cause sinus infection, lung inflammation, hay fever-like symptoms and may cause upset stomach and diarrhea if ingested. If you suspect Penicillium in your home, don't touch it. Close the door to the room and call us immediately.
