BLACK MOLD: PREVENTION AND IDENTIFICATION

Omaha, Council Bluffs, Fremont and the Surrounding Areas

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BLACK MOLD: PREVENTION AND IDENTIFICATION

June 28, 2022

Black Mold

“Black Mold” or stachybotrys is a specific type of toxic fungus that can appear in damp areas of your house. It is characterized by its unique appearance, as it is darker than most types of molds. Contrary to popular belief, “Black Mold” isn’t any more toxic than other molds. All molds are biohazards that can produce toxins and should be removed immediately when found.

WHAT CAUSES BLACK MOLD?

Black Mold can originate from many different sources. It thrives in damp areas with a lot of cellulose, such as cardboard or paper items.

However, mold can grow in any warm, wet area of your home such as basements, showers, crawlspaces, and especially on windows. It can form as the result of your ventilation not working properly or if you have leaky pipes.

If left unchecked, it will cause serious damage to your home.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY HOUSE HAS A MOISTURE PROBLEM?

One of the best ways to tell is by checking the humidity. You may purchase a hygrometer to keep a constant ‘eye’ on your humidity levels. A home with high humidity levels likely has a moisture problem. Musty smells suggest mold, mildew, or rot. Household odors that linger may indicate too much moisture in the air. Frost and ice on cold surfaces from condensation can be a sign of excess moisture in the air as well.

SIGNS OF A BLACK MOLD INFESTATION

It is difficult to see and identify black mold. The first clue that it may be present in your home comes from the symptoms of exposure, such as nasal congestion or coughing. However, only a trained professional can accurately diagnose whether black mold is present by having a professional analysis completed.

Another way to tell is a musty smell. Most species of mold and mildew cause a musty smell throughout your home, and the highest concentration of that smell likely has the most

If you can physically see the mold in your home, in most cases it’s bad enough that you probably need to call a professional mold removal team.

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