Most of us have encountered mold of one sort or another in our homes or offices. And most of the time it seems fairly innocuous. Just an unsightly blight that requires bleach, perhaps soap and water, but regrettably a lot of ‘elbow grease’ to remove. But do you know how to get rid of mold? Or do you when it really matters?
Identifying Mold: Can You Identify Types of Mold?
It's crucial to know how to tell the difference between different types of molds, particularly because some of them are much more harmful then others. No ‒ not all molds are created equal.
In fact, some kids of mold can actually be quite dangerous, and if not dealt with promptly, can pose a serious threat to the health of your family, or your employees/colleagues. That’s why is vital that you quickly identify what kind of mold is invading your home or place or work. The type of mold you encounter will dictate the way you deal with it.
Mold in Your Home ‒ It Comes in Every Color and Shape
Just as there are myriad types of bug infestations which can find their way, uninvited to the home or workplace, mold in your house, too, comes in all sorts of varieties. Some are relatively benign; some are actually quite dangerous. And it doesn’t matter how well you maintain and office or home, mold can sneak its way in. In fact, mold is a natural part of the air, but only becomes a problem if it is given the opportunity to grow and spread.
The Dangers of Mold in Your House
If mold does grow and spread in your home or workplace it can cause respiratory problems, especially for people with already compromised immune systems or who suffer from allergies or are prone to asthma-related issues.
Signs of Mold in Your House
Usually the first signs of mold appear as discolorations ‒ on a ceiling, a wall, or a floor. And, depending on the variety involved, can be black, blue, orange, red, violet, white, or yellow and varies in size from small patches to large spots.
However, if you don’t actually see any discoloration, that doesn’t mean that mold is not present. One big clue is a distinct, musty odor that can permeate any room, especially if your rooms or offices are made up of drywall or wood; materials that mold finds particularly appetizing.
Identifying Types of Mold Types
While mold is often regarded as one ‘entity’, it isn’t, even though its various types do share common characteristics. Here is a short list of the most common varieties of mold and how they can affect you.
Penicillium (Blue, Green or Yellow Mold)
Penicillium is probably the most common a form of mold found in offices and homes and can be found virtually anywhere ‒ on insulation, carpeting, on and under wallpaper, and, of course, rotting fabrics. And it’s fairly easy to spot. Unlike the black mold and brown mold found in bathrooms and basements, Penicillium can be blue, green, and even yellow. Fortunately, Penicillium can be used as an antibiotic (because of the mycotoxins it contains) but it can still represent a health threat so it should be eliminated immediately.
Aspergillus (Yellow-Green Mold)
Aspergillus, which is yellowish-green appearance, has a tendency to grow around dust, usually on walls, clothing, and paper. But it is toxic, since it produces mycotoxins that can pose a serious threat to human and animal health alike. Exposure to Aspergillus mold can result in various respiratory problems, bone pain, chest pain, and vision problems. It can even cause allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis ‒ an allergic reaction to Aspergillus ‒ among those susceptible to its effects.
Alternaria (Dark in Color, Wooly Appearance)
Probably the most common and widespread type of mold in existence, Alternaria is without doubt the main cause of allergic reactions ‒ like sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes. It flourishes during the summer and can be found principally in wet locales. It is very common to see this sort of mold after a flood or if your home or office has experienced water damage of one sort or another.
Stachybotrys (Slimy, Black Mold)
Stachybotrys is not only black and slimy; it’s also an exceptionally dangerous type of mold and should be eradicated as soon as possible. The fact is that this black mold is chock-a-block of unpleasant carcinogens that can cause asthma and suppress the body’s your immune system after prolonged exposure. Black mold is an unpleasant interloper can be found on particleboard, cardboard, hay, wicker, and drywall. If you find it, get rid of it without delay!
Cladosporium (Olive Green to Black)
Some molds require very particular circumstances in order to grow, while others are at the mercy of temperature and locale. Cladosporium, on the other hand, is one of the most robust types of mold and can thrive in almost any temperature, including extreme cold. Still, while Cladosporium is one of the less toxic forms of mold we know of, it can still cause asthma attacks and other allergic reactions. Again, you want to get rid of this black mold if you find it in your home or office.
How to Get Rid of Mold in Your Home or Office
While mold can be found virtually everywhere, it is still notoriously difficult to eradicate. The good news is, you don't have to shell it big bucks and hire a mold removal specialist. Sterifab is an EPA-approved disinfectant which you can use to remove mold on your own: Sterifab!
Sterifab not only eliminates microorganisms from a wide range of locations, but also works as a bacteriostatic ̶ inhibiting bacterial growth, and as a highly effective fungistatic, preventing otherwise hard-to-control fungal growth. It is specifically designed to:
Destroy micro-organisms
Kill fungus
Kill viruses
Kill mildew
Kill germs and disinfects
Eradicate pathogenic odors
Want to learn more?
Get all the details here on how to get rid of mold.