Types of Mold Found in Your Home
Finding mold in your home is not always easy. Mold could be lurking in unseen places – in fact, mold generally thrives in sheltered places where moisture is abundant. Quick Restore of Oregon wants to give you the knowledge to find and identify different types of molds in your home. More importantly, you will learn how and why mold grows in certain places. Once you can classify the strains, you should still call us for a professional mold remediation. It is best to tackle mold quickly – we are here for you 24/7!
5 Common Household Mold Strains
1. Aspergillus
What does it look like?
There are several species of Aspergillus, each of which varies in colors from grey to green. However, a common characteristic is that these spores tend to be structured in thick layers.
Where does it grow in your home?
Aspergillus is drawn to wood. Considering this, you could potentially find it everywhere from your attic to your kitchen cabinets.
Why is it harmful?
This strain of mold is common in many households and may not affect everyone. However, for those who are especially sensitive, including those who are immunocompromised, breathing in this type of mold may lead to a lung infection or an allergic reaction.
2. Penicillium
What does it look like?
The appearance of this mold strain is fuzzy and bluish green.
Where does it grow in your home?
Many times, Penicillium is found on food, underneath carpets, wallpaper, and in HVAC ductwork.
Why is it harmful?
One of the factors which makes this type of mold dangerous is its ability to grow rapidly. Once it has grown to a sizable mold colony, the residents of your home may experience negative respiratory problems such as bronchitis.
3. Fusarium
What does it look like?
Fusarium spores are always either red, pink, yellow, or white.
Where does it grow in your home?
While you can mainly find Fusarium on plants, Fusarium also likes to hang out in the same areas as Penicillium as well as well as drywall, foam insulation, and water-damaged areas. If you have experienced any water damage in your home (i.e. a burst pipe, roof leaks, etc.), make sure to read about our water damage restoration service.
Why is it harmful?
Though uncommon, those exposed to Fusarium may contract a sever eye infection.
4. Chaetomium
What does it look like?
You may be able to smell Chaetomium before you see it, as this strain is characterized by a musty odor. These spores start out white but turn to gray, black, or brown. It is sometimes mistaken as black mold (Stachybotrys: read below).
Where does it grow in your home?
Chaetomium will show up in your home after significant water damage (i.e. your house has just been affected by a storm or extreme flooding).
Why is it harmful?
The symptoms of inhaling Chaetomium spores are like those of allergies: irritated, watery, red eyes, and respiratory issues such as a struggle to breathe.
5. Stachybotrys (Black Mold)
What does it look like?
As the name suggests, these spores are black and sometimes very dark green.
Where does it grow in your home?
Stachybotrys is attracted to areas in your home which have been subjected to a high level of humidity or moisture for a long period of time.
Why is it harmful?
Stachybotrys is the most hazardous type of mold. When left alone in your home, you and your family may start to experience flu-like symptoms such as diarrhea and headaches. Long term damage due to black mold includes significant respiratory damage and even memory loss. Children are the most susceptible to the effects of black mold as their respiratory systems are still developing.
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Contact the Pros for Cleanup
As you can see, mold is a sneaky yet serious threat to those living in your home. Now that you know how to detect mold in your home, you can be better prepared to prevent mold damage in the future. If you have a current mold outbreak, contact your local mold remediation expert: Quick Restore of Oregon at 541-600-5471!