by Mold-B-Gone | Feb 21, 2023 | Black Mold, Mold Facts
Mold is regularly idea of as a hassle that solely impacts homes. However, the reality is that it can additionally be extreme trouble for businesses. Mold can reason more than a few fitness issues uncovered in humans, and in some cases, it can even be deadly. That’s why it is necessary to comprehend what black mildew is and what you should do if you suppose you have a mildew problem.
Read more: What Does Black Mold Smell Like?
We will talk about the risks of black mildew and the signs you have to appear out for. We’ll additionally suggest how to forestall mold from developing in your business.
What Is Black Mold?
Black mold is a fungus that can be located both indoors and outdoors. It’s most frequently related to solid and musty odors, and it usually seems like black, green, or white spots on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. Sometimes these spots are visible, and the scent is detectable.
When inhaled, black mold spores can cause many troubles, ranging from coughing and sneezing to pores, skin inflammation, and respiratory infections. These spores can set off allergies and reactions as they are airborne. If left untreated, black mildew can lead to long-term fitness troubles such as fatigue and depression.
Symptoms of Black Mold Inhalation
When we inhale black mold spores, the possible fitness dangers vary from slight to severe. Some of the most frequent signs related to black mold inhalation encompass respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and challenging breathing; nasal congestion; throat irritation; eye inflammation together with redness and watery eyes; complications and fatigue; pores and skin rashes or irritation; and in extra extreme cases, reminiscence loss or disorientation.
People with compromised immune systems, asthma, allergies, or different lung illnesses are at a greater chance of experiencing severe issues from black mildew inhalation.
Tips To Manage Black Mold Exposure
The unique way to stop unfavorable health issues from black mildew is to keep away from it altogether. If you suspect your place has a mildew problem, there are steps you can take to limit your danger of being exposed.
- Have your place inspected: An expert contractor may also be capable of perceiving areas the mold spores are most likely to thrive.
- Keep your areas dry: Fix any water leaks and clear any spills as quickly as they occur. Reduce humidity degrees in your place using an air conditioner or dehumidifier, and leave home windows open when climate permits.
- Clean affected areas regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to suck up as many mildew spores as possible. Clean surfaces with a moderate detergent and heated water, then dry them entirely.
- Wear the best clothing: If you’re going into a region with black mold, wear masks or respirators rated for mold protection. Also, wear gloves, lengthy sleeves, and pants to protect the skin from contacting the spores.
Following these guidelines can assist you in limiting your chance of black mold and the hazardous results that come with it. If you’re nevertheless experiencing signs after taking these precautions, talk with a health practitioner or different clinical expert immediately.
Call Mold-B-Gone Remediation for the first-class mold experts in Atlanta. We will assist you in getting the mildew out of your place so that you can remain safe. Our expert crew is right here to help!
by Mold-B-Gone | Feb 7, 2023 | Mold Facts
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in humid environments. The high levels of moisture allow mold to grow and spread so quickly. But what are the ideal humidity and temperature conditions for mold growth? And how can you prevent mold from growing in your home or office?
Read more: How To Prevent Mold?
We will discuss the optimal humidity and temperature conditions for mold growth and how to prevent it.
Reasons for Mold Growth
When it comes to mold growth, moisture is the critical component. Mold requires a relative humidity of 55% or higher and temperatures between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit to survive and reproduce. Any area with these conditions is at risk of developing mold. Moisture can come from many sources, including floods, plumbing leaks, spills, condensation on cold surfaces, and rising dampness.
High temperatures can contribute to mildew due to humidity or moisture in the air. Homes with negative airflow are inclined to condensation, which presents hospitable surroundings for mildew spores to thrive. In warm climates, air conditioning and cooling structures create stipulations perfect for mildew increase as they can eliminate a lot of moisture from the air.
Mold can also grow in cooler temperatures if sufficient moisture is present. Mold spores often survive freezing temperatures, so an area that experiences extreme cold and high humidity can still be at risk of mold growth during winter.
What Temperatures Does Mold Like?
Mold prefers warm and humid climates but can grow from 40 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to note that mold spores need a source of moisture to survive and reproduce, so even in colder climates with high humidity levels, the potential for mold growth exists.
Tips To Prevent Mold Growth
Mold needs moisture and the right temperature to survive and grow. Limiting the amount of moisture and maintaining proper temperatures within your home are essential to reduce the chance of mold growth.
1) Use Dehumidifiers
Mold wants moisture and temperature to grow, so one of the best methods to stop mildew is by controlling the humidity stages in your home. A dehumidifier can assist in maintaining your home’s humidity stage between 40-50 percent, which is the ultimate for stopping fungal growth. It’s integral to empty your dehumidifier’s water tank to forestall mildew growth.
2) Keep Your Home Clean
Mold thrives on moist, organic surfaces such as soil, wood, paper, and fabrics. Keeping these areas clean can help reduce the number of spores in the air. Regularly clean your home’s surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner, wiping down walls and floors to remove excess water—vacuum carpets and rugs regularly since they are a breeding ground for mold spores. Also, keep your gutters clear of debris so rainwater can drain away from the house properly.
3) Ventilate Your Home
Mold needs moisture and warm temperatures to grow, so good ventilation prevents mold growth. Ensure all your doors and windows have weather seals to prevent excess moisture from entering your home. In addition, use air conditioners and exhaust fans to cool down the environment and keep humidity levels low.
Following these steps can help prevent mold growth and keep your home healthy. Call Mold-B-Gone Remediation for the best mold specialist in Atlanta. We specialize in mold removal and can inspect your house for potential issues to give you peace of mind. Contact us today to get started!
by Mold-B-Gone | Jan 17, 2023 | Mold Facts
Mold is a fungus that grows almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material. In some cases, mold can grow on concrete. While it is not as common as mold growth on other materials such as wood, carpet, or drywall, it can still happen.
Mold growth happens faster in the presence of moisture, which can come from a flood, leaky roof or pipes, or other forms of water intrusion.
Read more: How Long Does It Take for Mold To Grow?
If you are concerned that your concrete may be infected with mold, there are several steps you can take to investigate and remove the problem. We will discuss what mold is, how it grows on concrete, and some steps you can take to remove it.
Why Does Mold Grow on Concrete: Reasons
Mold growth on concrete is a common issue that can cause damage to the building structure and pose health risks for those living in or near the affected area. It is essential to understand what causes mold growth on concrete and how to prevent it from occurring to protect your home or business from potential harm.
1) High Levels of Moisture
One of the most common reasons mold grows on concrete is its high moisture content. Concrete is porous, meaning water can easily seep into it, creating an ideal mold growth environment.
2) Poor Ventilation
Poor ventilation in areas with concrete can also cause mold growth. Poor ventilation can trap moisture and cause the temperature in an area to rise, creating a breeding ground for mold.
3) Leaking Pipes or Drains
Leaky pipes or drains can cause water damage on concrete that leads to mold growth. If left unchecked, this water damage will only worsen with time, increasing the likelihood of mold appearing.
4) Improperly Sealed Concrete
Concrete needs to be adequately sealed to prevent water from seeping into it. If the sealant applied is not of high quality, or if the concrete was not correctly prepped before sealing, water can easily penetrate and cause mold growth.
Tips To Prevent Mold Growth on Concrete
Mold growth on concrete surfaces is a common problem in many households. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent its occurrence.
1) Better Ventilation
Ventilation helps keep indoor moisture levels low and prevent mold growth on concrete. Ensure your home has open windows or exhaust fans to circulate air and reduce humidity.
2) Install Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers extract water molecules from the air, reducing moisture content and preventing mold growth on concrete surfaces. Consider investing in a dehumidifier if you live in a damp climate.
3) Clean Regularly
Regular cleaning helps eliminate accumulated dirt and debris, which can attract mold growth. Use mild detergents to clean concrete surfaces and dry them thoroughly after washing. Drying ensures no residual moisture remains, making it harder for mold to thrive.
4) Seal Concrete Surfaces
Sealing off concrete surfaces can help prevent moisture infiltration caused by rain and condensation. Apply a waterproof sealant to concrete surfaces to make them more resistant to mold growth.
Call Mold-B-Gone for the best mold removal service in Atlanta. We are experts in mold removal and remediation on concrete surfaces. We use specialized tools and cleaning agents to penetrate deep into the concrete’s pores and remove mold or mildew.
by Mold-B-Gone | Jan 3, 2023 | Indoor Air Quality
Did you know that the air inside your home can be more polluted than the outside? It’s true! Many people spend most of their time indoors, so it’s essential to make sure that the air quality is good. Indoor air quality testing involves inspecting and measuring the number of contaminants in your indoor air to ensure it is safe.
Read more: What Is Indoor Air Quality Testing?
The most common pollutants in indoor air are dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other particulates. Read on to understand why indoor air quality matters and how to improve it.
Reasons To Maintain Indoor Air Quality
Maintaining clean indoor air quality is essential for all buildings, from residential homes to commercial businesses. Here are some key reasons why the air quality inside your home, office, or other building should be a priority.
1. Improve Health
The most important reason to maintain good indoor air quality is for the health of occupants. Poor air quality can cause various issues, from respiratory problems to tiredness and headaches. You can help prevent these issues by maintaining consistently good air quality.
2. Increase Comfort
The comfort of occupants is also essential. Poor indoor air quality can lead to stuffy and uncomfortable environments, affecting productivity and overall satisfaction with the space. Ensuring good air movement within a building will improve the comfort levels of any occupants.
3. Reduce Pollution
Poor air quality can also impact those outside of the building. Poor ventilation within a building can cause pollutants to become trapped, leading to potential health risks for those in the surrounding area. Regular indoor air quality maintenance is essential for reducing pollution and protecting the environment.
4. Lower Risk of Fire
Finally, good air quality can also reduce the risk of fire. Poor air quality can cause an accumulation of combustible particles or gases, increasing the chances of a fire occurring in the building. Good airflow and ventilation will help to prevent this from happening.
Tips To Improve Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is essential for the health and well-being of those inhabiting a particular space, so it’s essential to improve it. Here are tips on how to do this:
1) Improve Ventilation
Ventilation is one of the most important things you can do to improve indoor air quality. Installing ventilation systems, like mechanical or natural ventilation, helps bring fresh outdoor air into your building or home. This helps reduce levels of pollutants and moisture, which can cause health problems. Additionally, ensure all windows and doors are properly sealed to ensure no outside pollutants are getting in.
2) Use Air Filters
Air filters are designed to remove pollutants from the air and help improve indoor air quality. Invest in high-quality filters designed for your HVAC system, and replace them regularly. Additionally, consider using air purifiers or ionizers to capture additional pollutants and improve air quality.
3) Better Insulation
Proper insulation helps reduce air leakage in your home or building, which can help prevent pollutants from entering. Ensure that the walls, ceilings, and floors of your building are adequately insulated to keep the air clean.
It is essential to improve indoor air quality to benefit those living or working in any given space. Call Mold-B-Gone for the best indoor air quality testing and mold inspection in Atlanta. With the help of our knowledgeable staff, you will be sure to have a healthier home environment in no time!
by Mold-B-Gone | Dec 13, 2022 | Mold and Infants, Mold Facts, Mold Inspection
Duct cleaning is an often overlooked but essential part of home maintenance. Many people don’t think about it until they start experiencing problems like allergies, asthma, or even higher energy bills.
Duct cleaning has many benefits because it not only improves air quality but also helps reduce energy costs.
Read more: Top 15 Reasons To Clean Your Ducts!
If you’re unsure whether or not your air ducts need to be cleaned, read on for the signs that you should call in the professionals!
1) Dusty Grills
The grills are the first place to look for signs of dirt. If you can easily spot dust and debris on the grills, it indicates that your air ducts need cleaning. Professionals use tools like high-powered vacuums and brushes to remove the dust build-up and can access tight spaces.
2) Mold Growth
If you notice that your air ducts have a musty smell or signs of visible mold growth, this indicates that the airflow in your home has been compromised and should be addressed immediately. Cleaning your air ducts will help reduce any mold problems and improve the overall quality of indoor air.
3) High Humidity
High humidity levels in your home can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. It can also lead to mold growth, spreading through the air ducts if not kept in check. If you notice high humidity levels in your home, it might indicate that your ducts need to be cleaned. Humidity causes problems inside the ducts, leading to dust and debris build-up. This build-up creates an ideal environment for mold growth and can cause a musty smell in your home that’s hard to ignore.
4) The Air Filters Are Dirty
The air filters in your HVAC system should be changed every three months or so, depending on the type of filter and how often you use it. If these become clogged with dirt and debris, it can lead to poor airflow from the registers. This indicates that your ducts have built up dust and dirt and should be cleaned.
5) Mold Is Present
If you notice any visual or odor of mold, your ducts are likely harboring the spores. The air circulating through your home picks up these spores and spreads them throughout the system. This can cause problems for anyone in the home who has allergies or asthma. Contact a professional to have the ducts cleaned and any mold removed.
6) Unusual Sounds Coming From Your System
If your vent system is making odd noises, like rattling or squeaking, it likely means a blockage somewhere in the line. This could be due to debris buildup, which could lead to an increase in airflow resistance. This can cause high air pressure and make strange noises you may hear. Have your vents inspected if you hear any odd sounds coming from them?
7) Higher Energy Bills
When dust, dirt, and other particles build up in ducts, the system has to work harder to circulate air throughout the house. This requires more energy and can lead to an increase in energy costs. The U.S Department of Energy recommends regularly cleaning and inspecting air ducts and other parts of your HVAC system to reduce overall energy consumption.
Call Mold-B-Gone for the best duct cleaning in Atlanta. We can help keep your air clean and your home safe.
by Mold-B-Gone | Dec 6, 2022 | Mold Facts, Mold Inspection
Mold can be a severe issue in any home. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also cause health problems for you and your family. If you have mold in your home, it’s essential to test for it as soon as possible.
Some signs that indicate the presence of mold in your home include a musty smell, visible growth on walls and ceilings, and water damage.
Read more: How Do I Know If Mold Is Growing In My Basement?
There are several different ways to test for mold in your home. We will discuss how to test for mold and what to do if you have a problem with mold in your home.
1. Determine If You Have a Mold Problem
Mold growth happens when there is an excess of moisture in the air or on surfaces. A dripping roof, plumbing leaks, and condensation can lead to mold growth. Inspect your home’s walls, ceilings, windowsills, and floors for discoloration or any visible signs of mold. If you do see signs of it, or if your home smells musty, it is time to inspect further.
2. Collect Samples for Testing
Experts in mold testing use different methods to find and collect samples. These include:
a) Air Sampling:
This involves collecting a sample of air and sending it to the laboratory for testing. The air sampling procedure can be used in different house parts, such as near HVAC ducts or other areas where mold may be present.
b) Swab Sampling:
Swab samples are taken by rubbing a sterile swab on non-porous surfaces, such as walls or floors. The sample can then be sent to the laboratory for further testing.
c) Bulk Sampling:
This involves collecting a physical sample of the material that may be contaminated with mold and sending it to the laboratory for analysis.
3. Test the Samples for Mold
Testing mold samples requires specialized kits, or you can send the samples to a laboratory for analysis. Be sure to follow your chosen method’s instructions carefully and note any information unique to your particular situation.
4. Interpret the Test Results
Mold growth found in your home should be tested and identified to determine the best course of action for remediation. It’s important to understand that a professional mold inspector or testing company can help you interpret the results so you can make informed decisions on how to address the problem.
The test kits available at hardware stores include easy-to-follow instructions, but these tests need to assess the type or amount of mold growth accurately. For this, a professional lab will be necessary to provide a detailed report of what types of molds were found and the levels they were present.
5. Take Action Based on the Results
Mold remediation involves both the removal of existing mold growth and the prevention of future mold growth. If the test results show high mold levels, it is essential to take action quickly. Mold can cause health problems, such as allergies and asthma, so it should be removed immediately.
6. Maintain Your Mold-Free Environment
Preventive measures are the best way to keep your home free of mold. Take steps to reduce humidity in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, by using exhaust fans or dehumidifiers and ensuring that these areas are well-ventilated.
Call Mold-B-Gone for expert mold inspection in Atlanta. We are a certified mold remediation company with the experience, knowledge, and technology to diagnose and remove mold from your home or office accurately.
by Mold-B-Gone | Nov 15, 2022 | Black Mold, Mold and Infants, Mold Inspection
Mold can be a severe problem in homes and businesses. Not only is the mold unsightly, but it can cause health problems for people who breathe in the spores.
One of the dangerous types of mold is black mold. Also professionally known as Stachybotrys chartarum, black mold produces mycotoxins, which can cause serious health issues.
Black mold grows in damp, humid environments and can appear as greenish-black or black spots.
Read more: What Causes Black Mold?
It’s essential to understand how fast black mold grows on concrete and other surfaces so that you take the necessary steps to prevent it from taking hold in your home or business. Black mold usually starts growing in ideal conditions in 24 to 48 hours. We will also discuss health issues with black mold and factors that influence mold growth in your home or business.
What Are the Health Issues With Black Mold?
Black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum or Stachybotrys atra, is a fungus that can cause serious health issues if left untreated. These include:
- Respiratory problems, including coughing and sneezing, asthma attacks, and chronic sinus infections.
- Eye irritation, such as burning eyes or watery eyes.
- Skin problems, with redness and itching being the most common symptoms.
- Various neurological issues, such as headaches and fatigue.
- In extreme cases, black mold can cause nausea and vomiting.
Patients with weakened immune systems, as well as infants, children, and older adults, are especially vulnerable to its effects.
Factors That Affect How Fast Black Mold Grows
Mold only needs a few essential components to grow and thrive: moisture, warmth, food source, and oxygen. Here are the factors that can affect how quickly black mold grows:
Humidity:
Mold will grow faster in moist, humid environments. High relative humidity (RH) means more moisture is available for the mold to feed off, causing it to grow faster. Places like bathrooms and basements are typically more humid, making them ideal environments for mold growth.
Temperature:
Warm temperatures help black mold reproduce quickly. The warmer the environment, the faster it will grow. Locations with higher temperatures, such as attics, will experience faster mold growth than rooms with lower temperatures.
Food Source:
Different molds require different food sources to survive. Black mold grows on organic materials like wood and paper high in cellulose. To grow faster, it needs a consistent source of these materials.
Oxygen:
Mold needs oxygen to survive and reproduce. Without it, the mold won’t be able to grow. Black mold can also reproduce anaerobically (without oxygen) in small amounts, substantially slowing its growth.
What Should You Do While Waiting for Mold Remediation Services?
If you have noticed telltale signs of black mold in your homes, such as discoloration, musty smells, and even health issues, you may:
a) Seal off the area until a mold remediation service arrives
b) Contact your insurer and file a claim
c) Increase ventilation in the affected rooms to reduce moisture levels
d) Clean up any remaining water or spills and all porous materials (like carpeting and drywall).
Contact Mold-B-Gone for expert mold inspection in Atlanta. We have a team of certified professionals available to answer any questions about mold growth, particularly black mold.
by Mold-B-Gone | Nov 8, 2022 | Uncategorized, White Mold
Mold comes in many shapes and colors, but did you know that there is a type of mold that is white? White mold, also known as Aspergillus, is a type of fungus that can cause respiratory problems. Organisms such as mold and fungus can wreak havoc in your home if left unchecked.
People often confuse white mold with mildew, which is also a type of fungus. Although white mold and mildew may look alike, they affect the body differently. Mildew is more common in wet climates, while white mold prefers warmer temperatures and high humidity levels.
Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences
Here, we will discuss what white mold is, its health effects, and how you can safely remove it from your home.
What Is White Mold?
White mold is a fungus that can grow in areas with excessive moisture and humidity. White mold looks like a white, fuzzy material and often appears on organic materials such as wood, paper, insulation, drywall, wallpaper, or other cellulose-based materials. It may also appear in damp corners of rooms or around windows and doors.
What Are the Common Causes of White Mold?
White mold is a type of fungus which thrives in damp and humid environments. Common causes of white mold can include:
a) Leaky pipes, windows, or roofs:
When there is a leak in the home, it can allow moisture to accumulate in areas that may not usually be damp. This provides an ideal environment for white mold to thrive.
b) Insufficient ventilation:
Poor air circulation and ventilation can cause excess humidity and moisture in the home. This will create an environment that is favorable for white mold to grow.
c) Flooding:
When flooding occurs, it can create a perfect environment for white mold growth.
d) Improperly maintained HVAC systems:
If the insulation and filters of an HVAC system are not regularly checked and changed, they can become saturated with moisture, creating a perfect environment for white mold.
How To Identify White Mold?
White mold is identified by its color, usually white or grayish. It can also have a powdery or fuzzy texture. Other signs of white mold include unpleasant musty odors, water spots on walls and ceilings, discolored patches on walls and floors, and black spots on wood surfaces. Efflorescence, a white powdery substance found on basement walls, indicates white mold growth.
How Does White Mold Affect Your Health?
White mold can cause various health problems, from mild symptoms like hay fever and sneezing to more severe issues such as respiratory infections and skin problems. When exposed to the spores of white mold, some people may experience allergic reactions, including runny noses, watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of white mold.
Long-term exposure can also lead to breathing problems and other illnesses. It is essential to take action as soon as you notice any signs of white mold in your home or office to prevent potential health risks.
White fluffy mold is dangerous and should be taken seriously. For expert mold removal in Atlanta, contact Mold-B-Gone Remediation Services. We have the experience and knowledge to resolve your mold concerns effectively.
by Mold-B-Gone | Oct 19, 2022 | Basement Mold, Mold and Infants, Mold Inspection
Mold can be a severe issue. It can cause health problems and damage to your property.
Basements are the perfect breeding ground for mold. The combination of darkness, moisture, and lack of ventilation creates the perfect environment for mold to grow.
Mold produces allergens that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues. In some cases, mold can even produce toxins that can harm your health.
Hence, it is essential to call mold remediation for your basement as soon as you see any signs of mold.
Read more: Health Benefits of Mold Remediation
Experts will take care of the problem quickly and efficiently to ensure your home’s safety and integrity.
We will explain what causes mold, its health risks, and how our mold remediation services can help you get rid of it for good.
What Are the Causes of Mold Growth in Basements?
1) Poor ventilation – Moisture-laden air can condense on cold surfaces, leading to mold growth.
2) Water leaks – Leaks from pipes, foundation cracks, or other sources can introduce moisture into the basement, promoting mold growth.
3) Flooding – Basements are susceptible to flooding, leading to mold problems.
What Are the Health Effects of Mold?
1) Mold can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing, or wheezing.
2) People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have more intense reactions.
3) Mold exposure can lead to inflammation of the airways and lungs.
4) Mold exposure is linked to neurological conditions and illnesses, including memory loss and depression.
How To Identify the Different Types of Mold?
1) Black Mold
These fungi are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. They thrive in places with high humidity or water leaks. They are also mildew and can cause many respiratory problems if inhaled.
2) White Mold
This type of mold is often found in food like bread, cheese, and fruits. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
3) Toxic Mold
This is the most dangerous type of mold as it can release mycotoxins into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems.
How Do Experts Help With Mold Removal from Basements?
1. Identify the Location and Extent of Mold Growth
This will help determine the best way to remove the mold.
2. Contain the Mold
Containing will prevent it from spreading to other areas of your home. This can be done by establishing a physical barrier, such as using negative pressure to keep mold spores from traveling through the air or using natural barriers like plants.
3. Eliminate the Source of Moisture
Mold needs water to grow, so eliminating the source of moisture is essential to preventing it from returning. This can be done by fixing leaks, increasing ventilation, or using a dehumidifier.
4. Remove the Mold
Once the mold has been contained and the source of moisture eliminated, the mold can be removed. This can be done through cleaning, sanding, and HEPA vacuuming.
5. Clean the Affected Area
After removing the mold, the area should be cleaned with soap and water. Any porous materials that have been affected by mold should be thrown away.
If you are searching for a mold specialist in Atlanta, contact Mold B Gone. We will come to your home and inspect for mold. Our process is simple: we find the mold, we kill the mold, and we remove the mold. We also offer a warranty on all of our work.
by Mold-B-Gone | Oct 12, 2022 | Black Mold
Mold is found in many households in the U.S., and while it can be unsightly, it’s usually not a cause for alarm. It is a fungus commonly found in damp areas and can cause serious health problems if left unchecked. The primary difference between mold and fungus is that mold is green or black, while fungus can be any color.
Also, a fungus is composed of microscopic spores, while a mold is composed of filaments. The fungus typically grows on food or soil, while mold usually grows on damp surfaces.
Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences
Black mold can be black, green, or brown. It’s often found in damp areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. If left unchecked, black mold can cause serious health problems.
Read on to learn about black mold and its dangers.
What Is Black Mold?
Black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a mold that thrives in damp, dark environments. It’s often found in homes and buildings damaged by water or flooding. Black mold can cause serious health problems, including respiratory illness, neurological damage, and even death.
Signs of a Black Mold Infestation in Your Home
1) Visible Mold Growth
You can find black mold anywhere in your home where there is moisture, such as in damp basements, showers, or leaky pipes. The mold may appear as black specks, streaks, or blotches and can quickly spread if not removed.
2) Musty Odors
Black mold emits a gas called mycotoxin, which smells musty. If you notice this musty smell, it’s essential to investigate further to see if mold is present.
3) Respiratory Problems
When inhaled, black mold can cause several respiratory problems, including:
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Bronchitis
- Inflammation of the lungs
- In severe cases, black mold inhalation can even lead to death.
How To Prevent or Get Rid of Black Mold: Tips
1) Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is key to preventing the growth of mold. Be sure to ventilate any areas in your home prone to moisture, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows to help circulate air and keep these areas dry.
2) Humidity
Mold thrives in humid environments, so it’s essential to keep the humidity level in your home low. Use a dehumidifier to help remove excess moisture from the air.
3) Water Damage
One of the most common ways mold enters the home is through water damage. If your home has experienced flooding or a leak, dry the area thoroughly and repair any damage to prevent mold from growing.
4) Cleaning
A good cleaning routine is essential for preventing the growth of mold. Be sure to clean any areas of your home prone to moisture, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Use a mild detergent and water to clean these areas
5) Mold-resistant products
Many products, like paints, caulk, sealants, etc., have mold-resistant features. You can use these products in areas more prone to moisture and susceptible to black mold growth.
While black mold may not be as toxic as other types of mold, it can still pose serious health risks. Exposure to black mold can cause several respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
You may wonder if cleaning or removing black mold is safe. It is better to call experts for mold removal in Atlanta, like Mold B Gone. We use the best EPA-registered products, and our approach is always efficient and effective.
