Common Types Of Mold & How To Identify Them
Most homeowners are familiar with mold, as it is a common problem in houses and buildings. The problem with mold growth in homes is that it can lead to long-term damage to your home and serious health problems. Although some types of mold are harmless, others can trigger allergic reactions and cause respiratory problems. It is important to know how to identify the different types and take the right steps on how to get rid of it. In this article, we will discuss the most common types of mold and how to identify them around the home! If you have any questions about mold in your house or if you would like to get a free estimate on a professional mold testing service for your home in Massachusetts, please contact our team at DCM Environmental Testing Co. today!
Black Mold:
Also known as Stachybotrys, this type of mold is often called “toxic black mold.” Black mold produces mycotoxins that can cause severe health problems. If you find this type of mold in your home, it should be dealt with by professionals and you should avoid disturbing it.
How To Identify It:
- Color: Dark green to black
- Texture: Slimy and wet
- Common Locations: Damp areas with excessive moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, crawl spaces, and water-damaged drywall
- Signs & Symptoms: Musty odor, respiratory issues, allergic reactions, headaches, and eye irritation
Aspergillus:
Strains of Aspergillus mold can release aflatoxins that lead to lung and sinus infections. Home occupants with weakened immune systems and children are at a higher risk of infection from this mold.
How To Identify It:
- Color: White, yellow, green, brown, or black
- Texture: Powdery or fuzzy
- Common Locations: HVAC systems, insulation, and walls
- Signs & Symptoms: Sneezing, coughing, wheezing, sinus infections, and lung irritation
Cladosporium:
This type of mold is one to watch out for, as it can grow in both warm and cold environments. Although it is not as toxic as black mold, it is still capable of causing allergic reactions when left untreated.
How To Identify It:
- Color: Olive green, brown, or black
- Texture: Velvety or suede-like
- Common Locations: Carpets, curtains, upholstery, wooden surfaces, and air ducts
- Signs & Symptoms: Skin rashes, watery eyes, sore throat, and sinus congestion
Penicillium:
Penicillium is popular for being used in certain antibiotics, however, certain strains can produce harmful toxins. It spreads quickly and can cause blurred vision or skin disorders.
How To Identify It:
- Color: Blue, green, or white
- Texture: Velvety with a fuzzy appearance
- Common Locations: Water-damaged walls, insulation, carpets, mattresses, and wallpaper
- Signs & Symptoms: Allergic reactions, asthma flare-ups, and lung inflammation
Alternaria:
This is one of the most common mold types in homes. It appears in damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms. If left untreated, it can cause long-term respiratory problems and worsen existing allergies.
How To Identify It:
- Color: Dark green to brown
- Texture: Fuzzy or wool-like
- Common Locations: Showers, bathtubs, sinks, windows, and damp outdoor areas
- Signs & Symptoms: Runny nose, skin irritation, asthma symptoms, and eye infections
Contact DCM Environmental Testing Co. for Mold Testing Services in Massachusetts!
If you have any questions about mold testing or suspect that there is any type of mold in your current Massachusetts home or a home you are considering purchasing, please contact our team at DCM Environmental today for a free quote on our unbiased mold testing services! Give us a call at (617) 481-5782 or fill out the contact form on our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
