What is Black Mold?

Black mold, toxic mold, or Strachybotrys Chartarum, is a growth that is green-black in color and has a slimy consistency. It can develop in various areas of the home, including walls, ceiling tile, floors and insulation within walls. Mold spores are carried into the house by people and animals, and once they are inside your dwelling, they will grow in areas where moisture exists. And mold spores do not have to be carried in by humans or pets. They can come in through windows and doors as well.

When mold spores have established themselves in your home, dampness and moisture will allow them to thrive. If you have any seepage of water on your property, that is especially where black mold can develop. Once it has developed, you will see the greenish-black substance growing anywhere it has gotten a foothold. If you touch black mold, it will have a slimy feel to it and smear very easily.

Black mold can be a health hazard and has been attributed to various lung and breathing problems, such as bronchitis and asthma. It has also been linked to deaths of babies due to respiratory bleeding. Therefore, if you have black mold in your home, you need to get rid of it. Of course, not all molds are black mold, but without laboratory testing, you cannot always tell if it is. So if you have any type of mold in your home, it would be in everyone’s best interests to have it removed promptly. You do not want to take chances with your health or the health of loved ones.

There are ways to prevent black mold from developing in the first place. For one thing, the humidity level in your home should not be over 55%. With air conditioning and heating units causing the fluctuation of humidity from one room to another, it is important to keep your inside humidity at a lower level. Humidity sensors can keep track of your levels, with dehumidifiers helping to regulate humidity.

Leaks in your home should immediately be dealt with, including roof leaks, blocked gutters and leaky pipes in the basement. Also take care of condensation found around pipes or windows. Black mold loves moisture.

Even too many house plants can pose a problem because of frequent watering. That puts moisture in the air.

Take precautions and don’t allow black mold to be a threat in your home.