Mold Removal Techniques For The Black Mold

At the onset of flooding in a home, there are several possible issues and problems that homeowners may face on top of the structural damage to the house that floods can create. One of these problems involves the growth of molds and mildew. Unless proper mold removal is performed, these microorganisms can create health issues in the home and put occupants at risk.

There are several varieties of molds and the most common is what people refer to as the black mold. The scientific name for this mold is Stachybotrys Chartarum and it appears as a greenish-black fungus and is found anywhere around the world. This is different from the green mold found in bread or the black mold usually found on shower tiles. Unless proper mold removal methods are performed, black mold can proliferate in any organic material such as paper, cardboard, wet leaves, dry wall, carpets, fiberboards, thermal insulation and other high-cellulose materials found in the home. The mold does not grow on plastic, vinyl, concrete and ceramic materials. The mold is wet and slimy to the touch when it is still fresh and has not yet dried. It thrives in damp places with a relative humidity of above 55 percent, and unless the homeowner performs proper mold removal, the fungus can spread everywhere else.

Most health organizations consider the Stachybotrys as a health risk and could endanger the occupants of an affected home if proper mold removal activities are not performed. If left untreated, black mold can evolve and can be as dangerous as the risks associated with lead-based paint and asbestos materials, although most are considered short-term effects. Despite this, the public is still warned against the dangers of this fungus and homeowners should immediately employ required remediation work whenever these types of molds are encountered.

Black mold or Stachybotrys produce mycotoxins that are harmful to animals and humans. Unless mold removal is performed, these mycotoxins can cause a variety of diseases including the "sick building syndrome" and pulmonary hemosiderosis or bleeding of the lungs. Black mold spores can be lethal to infants if not addressed immediately. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has listed several symptoms that are associated with exposure to black mold spores. These includes: respiratory problems; nasal and sinus congestion; watery, red and burning eyes that may also be sensitive to light; dry or hacking cough; nose and throat irritation; shortness of breath; chronic fatigue; skin irritation and allergies; aches and pains; fever; constant headaches; memory problems; mood changes; diarrhea and immune suppression. This staggering list alone should make the homeowner extra cautious with mold proliferation and should perform immediate mold removal upon detection.

The black mold fungi or Stachybotrys is difficult to identify during routine inspection. Not all black molds may be carrying Stachybotrys, so the best way to know is by sample laboratory analysis. It is important to note that the dangers associated with the molds can occur only upon ingestion or inhalation, so homeowners should wear protective clothing during mold removal to prevent contact with the skin. After flooding or water damage, black mold can occur hidden behind dry walls or under organic threaded carpets. Black molds should be scrubbed away with brushes using a detergent-bleach mixture. The affected area should be properly treated with fungicides that are specifically used for the Stachybotrys to prevent further infestation.

Extra care and attention should be exerted by homeowners particularly in cases where the home is invaded by flood or had a recent incident of water damage. Doing so could assure the safety of everyone and restore the home to pristine, habitable conditions.

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