Fighting Black Mold

No homeowner wants black mold, but what is it? Also called Stachybotrys, black mold grows in wet spots and is usually found around condensation or pools or stagnant water inside. Spores enter the home via doors, other entrances and can also be brought in on shoes and coats. Although most molds around your home aren’t dangerous, this variety can cause health problems if neglected.

Health Effects of Black Mold

The spores black mold produces are the major cause behind black mold poisoning. The most common symptoms include chronic coughing, irritation to the eyes, mucus membranes of the nose and throat and rashes. In addition, chronic fatigue and persistent headaches can all be symptomatic of black mold exposure or black mold poisoning. Nausea, vomiting and bleeding in the lungs and nose occur in the most serious cases of long term exposure.

About Mold

Mold quickly spread across walls, floors and ceilings. Whenever your home suffers water damage, you should have a Paul Davis technician check the walls for mold infestations. They can go unnoticed for weeks, and then appear practically overnight.

Once mold produces colonies in your living space, it quickly breeds and releases toxins that make life difficult for occcupants:

  • Mold emits a pungent, mildewed scent that prevents rooms from smelling clean.
  • Mold wreaks havoc on allergy-sensitive individuals, as well as those with asthma, causing a physical reaction.
  • Mold can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
  • Mold toxins can activate chronic inflammation and constant cold-like symptoms.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems can get systemic infections of the lungs, skin, or digestive tract.
  • In rare instances, mold toxins can cause neurological issues or even death.
  • The more extended the exposure, the more severe the danger.

Exceptionally damp homes and offices can be vulnerable to mold invasions even if no water damage has occurred. If you see or smell something that could be mold, get a skillful opinion right away.

To get rid of mold, the environment where it flourishes must first be removed. Water sources have to be dealt with, and any residual moisture must be carefully dried out. Only then can mold elimination and remediation start.

Whether a leaky roof, burst pipe, or other entry point, it isn’t enough to stem the tide. Moisture can saturate hidden portions of your home. Without proper cleanup methods, mold will keep coming back to these areas.

If you suspect your home may be growing black mold, speak with Paul Davis today. Our team inspects for existence of black mold before starting treatment. Depend on our contractors to eliminate black mold quickly. Keep your family safe, request an inspection for black mold today.