Tag: black mold

Common Misconceptions About Mold

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common misconceptions about mold

There is a lot of information about mold, its health effects and how you can prevent it – all across the internet. However, since it is the internet, some myths and misconceptions can sneak their way in. Having the right sources and knowledge is integral to becoming a well-informed homeowner. With the right information, you can tackle mold growth safely and confidently. So, to help you figure out which sources and articles can be trusted, the team at RestoPros has developed a list of common misconceptions about mold! 

1. Black Mold is Deadly

Black mold has somehow gained a reputation as the deadliest of all mold species. We believe that reputation is a little overhyped. Here are some important facts about black mold that aren’t sensationalized:

  • Black mold isn’t a specific type or species of mold. The term black mold is often used to describe molds that produce mycotoxins, which are naturally occurring toxins. One of the species known for producing mycotoxins are Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra—this species, which is greenish-black in color, is often referred to as black mold.
  • It is not rare, but it is not as common as other mold species such as Penicillium, Aspergillus and Alternaria.
  • The health effects of black mold are dependent on the individual. Adults and children who have weaker immune systems, frequent allergies, and asthma might react to mold exposure and mold spore inhalation.
  • Black mold can be prevented just like any other mold species: By avoiding excess moisture and by maintaining cleanliness. 

2. You Can DIY Mold Removal

There are several unreliable sources that say you can test and remove mold all by yourself and ultimately save money. While you might be inclined to go on this route, take a moment to reconsider. Mold testing kits aren’t always reliable and there are many states have laws about mold removal. These regulations often require that mold related activities such as assessment and remediation be handled by a licensed professional. In addition, mold often starts growing in porous areas (such as drywall) and it can be hard to remove mold on your own from porous materials. Because of these reasons, it is best to leave mold removal to the experts.

3. Mold is Rare

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is very common in homes and buildings—it can be found in indoor environments if it has the right moisture content and nutrients. So, while you might think mold could never grow in your home, think again. Mold spores are in great quantity all around us and there isn’t anything particularly wrong with that. The problem is when they settle in a specific area in our home and start to grow.

4. No Odor, No Mold

Sure, mold might have a distinct musty smell, but just because you don’t smell any odor doesn’t mean you don’t have a mold problem. While an odor is a sign of mold, it isn’t the only sign of mold. The best way to know whether you have mold or not is to have an inspection done. Experts can perform professional mold testing and discover whether you have a significant mold problem or not.

Contact RestoPros For Mold Removal Services

We hope this list of common misconceptions about mold has been helpful. If you suspect you have a mold problem, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros! We offer services such as water damage restoration, mold testing, removal and remediation! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule a service online!

What Is Black Mold and Is It Dangerous?

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what is black mold

The term “black mold” is often used a blanket term to give the impression that mold is a highly toxic monster waiting to enter your home and wreak havoc on your kitchen, bathroom or basement. While mold is problem that should be dealt with before it gets out of hand, it’s important to understand the facts behind it to ensure you’re informed and prepared.  If you suspect you have mold growth in your home, keep reading this guide from the team at RestoPros to answer your nagging question: What is black mold?

What is Black Mold?

Mold in general is a type of fungus that spreads through spores and can be found indoors and outdoors. While mold spores are often present everywhere, usually floating through the air or in dust, they grow in damp and moist conditions. That is why your kitchen, bathroom and basement are prone to mold—they are the damper areas in your home.

Black mold is not a specific type or species of mold. The term “black mold” is often used by news media to describe molds that produce mycotoxins. One of the species of molds that produce mycotoxins (toxic substances released by certain fungi) is Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra which is often referred to as black mold.

Stachybotrys atra is greenish-black in color and can grow on dust and lint as well as in areas where there is excessive moisture from humidity, water damage or flooding. There is no specific information about how often stachybotrys atra is found in residential buildings. It’s not rare but it is not as common as other mold species such as Aspergillus, Alternaria and Penicillium.

Is Black Mold Dangerous?

Now that you know what black mold is, it’s time you learned the facts about whether it is dangerous or not.

The most important thing to note about the dangers and health impacts of mold is that its effects depend on the individual. Usually, people susceptible to allergies might have a reaction to the presence of mold or more accurately, the toxins produced by mold. There is little information on the health effects of mycotoxins, but the consensus is that prolonged and direct exposure might lead to some reaction.

It has also been found that people with weaker immune systems might be more likely to get mold infections. In addition to that, people with asthma who encounter molds might experience the worsening of their asthma symptoms. Mold spores inhaled by people with asthma or those who are allergic to mold can cause their lungs to constrict and produce more mucus. This can lead to coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

How Do You Prevent Black Mold?

Just like other molds, black mold must immediately be removed to prevent any health risks as well as property damage. Here are some ways you can prevent black mold:

  • Mold requires excess moisture to grow so it is important you maintain the moisture and humidity levels in your home. Ideally, the humidity levels must be kept between 30-50 percent to prevent mold. Invest in a hygrometer or a dehumidifier to control your humidity levels.
  • Ensure your home has proper ventilation (especially damp spaces such as your bathroom) by using your exhaust fans.
  • Keep your house clean and dust-free as much as you can. Regularly replace your AC air filters, clean out your fridge and ensure there are no clogs or leaks in your kitchen and bathroom.
  • Try using non-toxic DIY mold cleaning products for mold prevention.

Stay Mold-Free with RestoPros!

At RestoPros we believe in arming our customers with the right information about mold removal so they can tackle mold when they see it. However, keep in mind that the best way you can be mold-free is with the help of professionals. Get in touch with the experts at RestoPros for our top-notch  mold removal and remediation services by calling 855-587-3786 or by scheduling a service on our website!

5 Myths About Mold in Your Home

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No one wants to see mold growing in their home. Mold is unsightly. It can damage your foundation, and it can wreak havoc on the health of your household. But for all the negative effects of mold, there are several exaggerated and even completely false beliefs that should be pointed out. The professionals at RestoPros, the most trusted mold remediation company in Dallas, have collected five of the most common myths about residential mold.

Read the facts below and educate yourself before attempting to clean or diagnose a mold outbreak in your home.

Myth 1. Black Mold Is Deadly

There are over 20,000 different species of “black mold,” which is technically not even a scientific term. Black is simply the color of certain strains – and one of the least common colors of fungal growth. Stachybotrys, which is considered to be the most toxic strain of mold, can be any color depending on the surroundings. In most cases this toxic mold is a greenish-black color, but attempting to identify it by the color is futile. Aside from testing the mold directly, the only sure test for the toxicity of a mold in your home is a direct allergic reaction.

Myth 2. Bleach Kills All Mold

Bleach is the go-to product many people use to clean a mold outbreak. While it works well enough to “clean” mold off of a non-porous surface, bleach can irritate the skin and the fumes are dangerous if inhaled. Bleach is also not an ideal cleaner for porous surfaces – and can exacerbate the situation by seeping into wood, plasterboard, wall paper and other materials. Hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar are both preferred mold cleaners for mold growth on both porous and non-porous surfaces.

Myth 3. Mold Will Make You Sick

This is partly true, but not all mold will make you sick. In most cases, the person is suffering from an allergic reaction to the mold. The “toxic mold” mentioned above, which is rare, can cause all sorts of respiratory problems, chronic fatigue, eye irritation and rashes among other symptoms. Toxic mold can make you sick, while most common mold outbreaks are more likely to trigger allergy symptoms. Mold allergies can include sneezing, itching, running nose and throat irritation; basic allergy symptoms generally associated with seasonal allergies.

Myth 4. A Small Amount of Mold Is Not A Problem

If you notice mold anywhere in your home, you need to clean it immediately. Even a small amount can do damage to the surface area and will continue to spread. Sometimes mold will grow in an area that was left damp (usually places in the kitchen or bathroom). But mold on the ceiling or a wall might indicate a separate problem that also needs to be dealt with. Roof and plumbing leaks are major causes of mold – and until they are fixed, the growth with only return if cleaned.

Myth 5. Mold Remediation Is a DIY Project

If you are experiencing a serous mold outbreak, do not attempt to clean and eradicate the growth on your own. Mold that is the result of serious flooding or a major leak needs the attention of a professional remediation company. Mold can be an insidious intruder. It can ruin homes and greatly compromise the health and happiness of a household. Never attempt a DIY fix when dealing with a mold infestation. Trained experts can offer a full assessment (including diagnosing the root of the problem) and will have the latest equipment to deal with the growth. Experienced mold remediation technicians can also help file insurance claims to help cover the cost of the damages.

Now that you have a clearer understanding of these common “mold myths,” you can be better prepared to deal with an infestation. While the mere sight of mold in your home should not be cause for alarm, it is important that it is dealt with right away. If you discover widespread growth, do not hesitate to call the professionals at RestoPros. We can send someone out to assess the problem and offer solutions for all aspects of the problem. Call us at 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment today!

4 DIY Tips on Removing Black Mold

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Your eyes have been watery and itching lately, and you’ve been coughing and sneezing more than normal. There has also been a musty, unpleasant smell that, regardless of how many candles you burn, just won’t go away. You then notice a fuzzy little greenish-black patch of slime in the bathroom. You, my friend, have a toxic invader: black mold. A serious threat to homeowners, black mold can wreak havoc on your home and health.

Black mold is found in the dark and damp areas of your home and, left unchecked, can quickly spread and become a serious threat to you and your loved ones. Fortunately for you, the professionals at RestoPros – the leading mold and water remediation company for the greater DFW Metroplex – are going to show you 4 DIY tips on removing black mold.

  1. Gear Up for Battle

Before you confront the enemy, make sure you’re properly outfitted and ready for battle. For under $10.00, hooded disposable coveralls will protect you and your clothing from mold spores. You will also need a high-quality N-95 respirator, air tight safety googles, and a pair of good rubber gloves. Because the health concerns are so serious, we must insist that no short cuts are taken. Even short exposure to black mold spores can cause respiratory infections, joint pain, rashes, and even blindness.

  1. Remove and Toss Porous Materials.

Any porous materials with mold growth will need to be removed and discarded. This can include materials like drywall, paper, carpeting, and ceiling tiles. Because mold can spread rapidly, it’s important to check behind walls with mold grown on them to see how far the infection has spread. This might mean having to remove large sections of drywall and carpeting to ensure all black mold is found and treated. While wooden studs can be treated and cleaned, drywall will need to be discarded and replaced after the mold is eradicated from the area. This holds true for all carpeting as well. Hardwood floors may be cleaned, but the carpeting will need to be removed from the home.

  1. Disinfect and Clean the Area.

There are a number of inexpensive products on the market that can be used to clean mold. For years, products like bleach or ammonia have been the preferred choice, but today there are several products that are made especially for the removal and cleanup of mold and can be purchased at any major grocery store. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bleach may still be the most effective way to remove mold from the home. If you decide to use bleach, mix 1 cup with 1 gallon of water. Pour into a spray bottle or use with a bucket and sponge. Never mix bleach and ammonia, as it produces a toxic gas.

  1. Prevent Mold Growth from Reoccurring.

Make sure that the root cause for the moisture has been fixed. Places like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements need to be cleaned regularly and kept dry. For large areas like basements, a dehumidifier will allow you to regulate the amount of moisture in the air. Air conditioners are another good way to reduce humidity in the home. In areas where it is difficult or impossible to eliminate moisture, you can mix 1 cup of bleach with 5 gallons of water for use in controlling the growth of mold.

 

While we hope these DIY tips help in your battle with black mold, they’re no substitute for an experienced professional. The fact is, the job may just be too difficult and dangerous. The CDC recommends calling a professional mold remediation company in most cases. The mold remediation experts at RestoPros have a long-standing reputation for expertise, professionalism, and hard work. If you’re looking for a skilled and highly trained technician for mold testing, mold remediation, water damage restoration, or HVAC duct cleaning anywhere in the Dallas Metroplex, call us at (855) 58-RESTO (855-587-3786) to schedule an appointment today!

 

3 Different Mold Colors and What They Might Mean

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It’s never a good feeling to see mold, regardless of where you come across it in your home. Whether it’s in the bathroom, pantry, garage or outdoors, spotting this fungus has a nasty habit of putting a damper in anyone’s day. And while it’s probably a good idea to have any mold you encounter removed as soon as possible, not all molds are the same.

Some molds are inherently more dangerous and harmful than others, but they’re all bad. Given the overwhelming numbers of different mold types, determining how concerned you should be about the one in your home can be tough.

Well, worry no longer! The professionals at RestoPros are familiar with the different types of molds you may stumble across, and we’ll help you figure out what it might be. We’ve put together a list of a few common colors of mold you might see at home.

There are 3 different mold colors:

1. Green Mold

There are two sides to this. One is that you’re probably going to come across green mold more than anything, so it’s probably not an exceedingly rare species. On the other hand, since it’s so common, determining which family a green mold belongs to is nearly impossible without a specialist.

To be on the safe side, go ahead and get rid of anything that has this mold on it just in case. While we can’t pinpoint the exact type without looking at it, mold of any kind isn’t welcome in your home and should be disposed of immediately.

2. Blue/Green/White

A mold that falls under one of these colors, especially one that you find in a place with food – such as a pantry – likely comes from the Penicillium genus. It’s fairly common as well, and it’s capable of causing some harsh respiratory system problems.

Again, any time you spot a mold that looks like one of these colors, do your best to remove it and call a professional!

3. Black

As a whole, black mold tends to get stuck with a bad reputation. That’s not to imply that black mold is in any way good, because it’s not. But more often than not, people will tell you that black mold is by far the worst color you could end up spotting, and that isn’t entirely the case.

Black mold that you notice outdoors on plants is probably either Alternaria or Cladosporium, and both need to be taken care of as soon as you can. Otherwise, it might be Aspergillus¸ which is a common mold we actually breathe in pretty often without knowing.

  • Cladosporium spores have been known to cause minor infections in places such as your eyes, sinuses and skin, but they’ve also been known to lead to significantly more serious complications like fungal meningitis in the brain.
  • Alternaria is also found indoors in darker areas, as well as in typical dust you see everywhere in your home. Although not as serious as Cladosporium, it’s still problematic.

All mold is annoying, and no matter how common or non-threatening it might look, it has the potential to cause a lot of damage. It needs to be properly removed as quickly as possible, especially if you have small children in your home or people who are susceptible to health problems.

That’s where RestoPros comes in. Our team is thoroughly qualified to handle all your mold-removal needs, and we’ll get it done safely and securely. Whether you’re in need of an emergency cleanup or just want to test your home for mold infestations, we’ve got you covered.

For the most reliable service in the Dallas area, give us a call at 855-587-3786!

Black Mold: What Is It & How Does It Affect Your Home & Health?

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Black mold is a common industry term used by experts in the field and, more recently, by concerned homeowners. The name sounds threatening, like something you would hear in a horror movie. ‘Everyone get out of the theater! The black mold is coming!’ It has been the subject of erroneous internet rumors, backed by misinformation about its toxicity and its effects on a household.

While all residential mold should be taken seriously, it’s important to deal with any infestation with factual information. A good starting point is to remember to treat all mold the same. Do not attempt to clean or investigate mold without the proper safeguards – including gloves and a face mask. Always abide by safety precautions and contact a professional mold remediation company (such as RestoPros) immediately if an infestation has gotten out of control.

What Is Black Mold?

  • Stachbotrys chartarum, also known as Stachbotrys atra, is often referred to as black mold.
  • Stachbotrys chartarum is a mold that produces mycotoxins, which are toxic substances released by a fungus.
  • Houses and buildings with water damage and dark areas are the preferred locations for Stachbotrys chartarum to grow and reproduce.
  • Contaminated plant material entering your house can cause this mold to grow as well.
  • Although this mold is not as common as other household molds, it is not rare either.
  • Other molds can be black in color, but Stachbotrys chartarum is most associated with the name.

How Dangerous Is Black Mold?

  • Tons of speculation surround the dangers of black mold, describing it as toxic and sometimes deadly.
  • No scientific evidence has concluded Stachbotrys chartarum is a severe health risk to most people, but allergy and sickness symptoms may arise from the mycotoxins it produces.
  • Although there is little scientific evidence that links black mold to inflammatory responses, mycotoxins have been documented to cause headaches, nasal congestion, and chronic coughing.
  • Infants, elderly, and those with weak immune systems can have more severe symptoms from mycotoxin exposure, and should be removed from areas infected with black mold.

Can Black Mold be Identified?

  • With over 100,000 different types of mold, it’s often difficult to determine which kind is in your home.
  • Black is a very common color for all mold, making it a challenge to identify Stachbotrys chartarum.
  • Check any areas of your home that are dark and have moisture, and focus on finding all mold.
  • A single room in your house can have several types of mold living there, making it less important to identify than to remove outright.
  • All types of invasive mold should be treated and removed by mold remediation professionals.

Black mold is not the toxic horror show that many have been led to believe. However, any mold outbreak in your home should be treated with both caution and immediacy. If you have mold growing in your home, contact RestoPros immediately. We can respond quickly to mold outbreaks and mold damage and have been helping our neighbors in the Dallas/Fort Worth area for years. Give us a call at 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment with the most trusted mold remediation company in the metroplex.