Many people assume that mold only grows in very old buildings or homes that are not properly taken care of. However, mold issues within the home are extremely common and can grow from an unknown source of water damage, improper ventilation, and a number of other issues. Below you’ll find some of the most common harmful molds that grow in homes, and what to do if you struggle with a mold problem.
Most Common Harmful Molds in Homes
- Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys, also known as black mold, gets its name from its extremely dark color. It does not always appear black, though, and can be found in a dark grey or green color as well. This type of mold is extremely dangerous. Some of the most common symptoms include fatigue, diarrhea, headaches, and respiratory issues.
Stachybotrys is especially harmful to young children and people with compromised immune systems. This type of mold grows on material which contains high levels of cellulose, including fiberboard, cotton, paper products, and gypsum board.
- Cladosporium
Cladosporium is extremely common in homes and can cause serious health issues in the home’s inhabitants. This mold appears in a variety of colors including brown, green, gray, and black. You’ll most likely find this mold on painted walls, exposed wood, upholstered furniture, curtains, or carpeting.
Symptoms of Cladosporium exposure include sneezing, irritated eyes, hives or rashes, coughing, sinus issues, and itchy throat. Chronic exposure can even cause emphysema.
- Penicillium
Penicillium is a common mold found outdoors in soil, with over 200 known species. However, this mold will also grow in damp places inside the home such as floorboards, basements, and bathroom or kitchen walls. This mold appears a blue, green, yellow, or white color and cause asthmatic symptoms and respiratory issues to those exposed.
- Chaetomium
Chaetomium mold grows in very wet places that don’t get a lot of light such as inside drywall, under wallpaper, and in floorboards or underneath carpeting. It’s not uncommon to find Chaetomium and black mold in the same environment.
The symptoms associated with Chaetomium include irritated and watering eyes, strained breathing, nose bleeds, and fever.
- Fusarium
Fusarium grows at colder temperatures than other molds. It is commonly found in fabrics, carpeting, humidifier pans, and HVAC systems. It typically appears an orange color and can cause symptoms ranging from mild allergies to severe respiratory issues.
- Aspergillus
Aspergillus is one of the most common household molds but, luckily, the least harmful on this list. Only 16 of its 200 species cause health issues in humans, making it more manageable than other dangerous molds. Aspergillus usually appears a greenish-yellow color and causes allergic reactions and lung infections in very serious cases.
- Alternaria
Alternaria is grows mostly in the spring and summer months. This mold is unique as it is not typically found in building materials such as wood or drywall, but more commonly in the air, electric cables, and textiles. This mold is very well known for its allergy-like symptoms.
Mold Damage Restoration Services
If you have any type of mold problem in your home, it’s important to hire professional mold removal contractors. These contractors will be experts in mold damage restoration services and can properly test and treat the mold problem to prevent regrowth.