This world contains many different kinds of molds and fungi. They come in a wide range of colors, though mostly what we find in our homes are black, brown, green, and white molds (or a variation of these colors). While many people are fearful of the effects of black mold (stachbotrys), this mold is actually green and black. In fact, there are so many green molds that, unless you’re a mycologist, you probably won’t be able to tell the difference. This doesn’t mean it’s ok to have green mold in your home. Some green molds are hazardous, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory issues.
Common Types of Green Mold
Aspergillus – This mold is fairly common and can be green, yellow, brown, or white. While most people are usually unaffected by it, this mold can cause sickness especially in those with respiratory illnesses or allergies. It’s commonly found on and inside of walls.
Cladosporium – Green, brown, or grey, this hardy mold can live in cool environments as well as warm ones. It still requires damp conditions and is often found on walls, cabinets, or damp carpets.
Penicillium – The family of molds that Penicillin was derived from. Penicillium is often a bluish-green color, and can be found growing on carpets, insulation, and mattresses when they are wet or damp.
Mold Inspection
After a leak is discovered, or a spot of mold is found, the first step is to search your house to see how big the infestation is. Mold growth in excess of 3 feet will likely require professional assistance.
You know to check the problem locations: the utility closet, the bathroom, and the basement. But there are other places where mold is not only surprisingly common, but often grows unchecked. After storms, humid days, damaged plumbing, or even just once a month you should do a quick inspection of all these special hiding places to make sure you don’t have secret mold hiding away.
- Chimneys
- Windowsills and under Sink Cabinets
- On Dishes
- Washing Machine (doors, detergent chamber)
- HVAC Drain Pans
- Carpets and Carpet Mats
- Inside Walls
Mold Remediation
For larger infestations, professional assistance should be sought after, but for smaller mold growths it’s possible to take care of the issue yourself.
First, remove the source of water. Stop the excess condensation, the dripping pipe, or the leaking roof that led to the humidity increase in the first place. Clearing away the existing mold won’t help at all if the source of moisture isn’t dealt with first.
Always wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from mold spores.
Use warm, soapy water to wash away the mold. Never reuse a sponge used to clean up mold. Clean any rags and dispose of water away from your home.
Use a spray bottle with a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water and spray the cleaned area to kill off any surviving mold spores.
Dry the affected area. Place a fan or dehumidifier in the area to dry off the surface where the mold was present.
While you can never fully remove mold from your home, you can prevent, stop, or impede the growth of mild by keeping humidity levels at roughly 45% and circulating air throughout the home using fans.
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Most people know not to eat food that’s been sitting out all day in a hot environment, but how does that apply to large feasts where food has already been out for an hour of preparation, through the meal, and throughout the day as we go back for seconds and thirds? We all want to sit back, relax, talk with friends and family or just enjoy what’s on TV after the meal but it’s important to remember that food, wherever we leave it, becomes a breeding ground for mold and bacteria almost immediately. So this Thanksgiving, take a few preventative steps to make sure that that you’re not one of the many Americans who suffer from food poisoning this year.
Often we talk about how to spot mold, where to find it, and what it looks like when damage to walls and foul smells are the results of mold creeping through your home. However, there are times when mold is so well hidden that no damage is apparent to your home. When mold has taken root into your ventilation system or is hiding out in a corner of the carpet beneath an end table, it’s difficult to realize it’s even there. But your body also gives off warning signs that something is wrong, and there are a few key reactions to mold and mildew spores in the air.
Mold isn’t just a problem for your home and your health, it’s a health risk for your pets too! Pets breath and play in your house, just like you do. Since mold spores are typically airborne, and cause the most damage when inhaled, they’re just as likely to affect your pets as they to affect your family. While black mold, the one that homeowners fear the most, is dangerous to humans,