WHAT IS BLACK MOLD?
In order for black mold to develop in residential homes or commercial buildings, certain conditions must be present. First and foremost, there must be sufficient moisture present. In fact, black mold most often starts in buildings where water damage has occurred, either from flooding, leaky plumbing, or even excessive condensation. Secondly, since mold needs organic matter to feed off of, any material present that contains carbon can provide a surface for mold to grow on. Indoor materials that can support black mold include leather, wallpaper, carpeting, wood, insulation, and sheetrock/drywall, boxes, etc.
Black mold is also self-reproducing. What is actually visible as a moldy film on a surface is the mycelium, or the main body of the mold. This forms when the filamentous cells of the mold called the hyphae produce enzymes to decompose neighboring organic material, the organism’s primary source of nutrition. Eventually, these hyphae cells form spores, which are released to germinate and further the spread of the mold. These spores are extremely resilient and can lie dormant for years before germinating.
Overgrowth of black mold can comprise the air quality of an indoor space very quickly. For one thing, black mold produces volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are responsible for producing the musty smell commonly associated with moldy areas. Black mold may also produce an opportunistic infection in those who already have a compromised immune system that wouldn’t ordinarily occur in a healthy person. Individuals that may become infected include young children, the elderly, HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant recipients, or those undergoing chemotherapy. Black mold is also linked to causing or elevating allergies, asthma, and sinusitis.
Symptoms of black mold toxicity vary between individuals. However, symptoms of central nervous system suppression are commonly reported, such as headaches, difficulty concentrating, and light-headedness. In addition, allergy driven responses are also common, including sneezing, water eyes, coughing, and throat irritation.
Black mold removal can be a long and physically intensive endeavor, but it is not impossible to accomplish. It is essential that anyone at high risk from negative health consequences from black mold exposure be evacuated from the site prior to initiating the clean up process. In addition, anyone involved in black mold remediation should wear protective clothing and related eye and respiratory gear. All moldy materials must be removed from the premises and contained until it can be properly disposed of. Once problem areas have been improved, it is essential to address moisture problems in the environment to prevent future black mold contamination.
Stachybotrys chartarum (also known by its synonym Stachybotrys) is a greenish-black mold. It can grow on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, dust, and lint. Growth occurs when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. Constant moisture is required for its growth. It is not necessary, however, to determine what type of mold you may have. All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.
Black mold is also self-reproducing. What is actually visible as a moldy film on a surface is the mycelium, or the main body of the mold. This forms when the filamentous cells of the mold called the hyphae produce enzymes to decompose neighboring organic material, the organism’s primary source of nutrition. Eventually, these hyphae cells form spores, which are released to germinate and further the spread of the mold. These spores are extremely resilient and can lie dormant for years before germinating.
Overgrowth of black mold can comprise the air quality of an indoor space very quickly. For one thing, black mold produces volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are responsible for producing the musty smell commonly associated with moldy areas. Black mold may also produce an opportunistic infection in those who already have a compromised immune system that wouldn’t ordinarily occur in a healthy person. Individuals that may become infected include young children, the elderly, HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant recipients, or those undergoing chemotherapy. Black mold is also linked to causing or elevating allergies, asthma, and sinusitis.
Symptoms of black mold toxicity vary between individuals. However, symptoms of central nervous system suppression are commonly reported, such as headaches, difficulty concentrating, and light-headedness. In addition, allergy driven responses are also common, including sneezing, water eyes, coughing, and throat irritation.
Black mold removal can be a long and physically intensive endeavor, but it is not impossible to accomplish. It is essential that anyone at high risk from negative health consequences from black mold exposure be evacuated from the site prior to initiating the clean up process. In addition, anyone involved in black mold remediation should wear protective clothing and related eye and respiratory gear. All moldy materials must be removed from the premises and contained until it can be properly disposed of. Once problem areas have been improved, it is essential to address moisture problems in the environment to prevent future black mold contamination.
Stachybotrys chartarum (also known by its synonym Stachybotrys) is a greenish-black mold. It can grow on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, dust, and lint. Growth occurs when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. Constant moisture is required for its growth. It is not necessary, however, to determine what type of mold you may have. All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.