When you think of unwelcome house guests, it’s likely your mind jumps to pests like rodents or insects. However, there’s another invader that, although less visible, can be equally disturbing. We’re talking about mold, a quiet infiltrator that can make a home in your house without you even realizing it. It grows silently, often unnoticed until it becomes a real issue.
Mold is more than just an unsightly nuisance; certain types can cause health problems and damage to your home. In this article, we’re going to expose the many different types of mold that could be sharing your living space. From the infamous ‘black mold‘ to less known but equally concerning species, we’ll help you identify and understand these unwanted fungal guests.
In this article, we’ll discuss the following:
Classification of Harmful Molds
While some mold species are harmless, others pose risks to human health. In fact, a number of studies conducted in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada suggest that “exposure to dampness and mold in homes is a significant risk factor for a number of respiratory symptoms” (Miller, 1992).
These harmful molds can be classified into three groups:
- Allergenic: Molds that cause and produce allergies and allergic reactions such as asthma attacks.
- Pathogenic: Molds that cause health problems in those suffering from an acute illness.
- Toxigenic: Molds that produce toxic substances that can lead to dangerous or even deadly health conditions. This is sometimes referred to as “toxic mold.”
12 Most Common Types of Mold Found Indoors
Acremonium
Acremonium is considered a toxigenic mold. It changes its appearance over time, from a tiny moist mold into a powdery substance.
Cladosporium
This is an allergenic mold type that grows both in warm and cold settings. It commonly thrives in carpets, fabrics, and upholstery, as well as inside cupboards and under floorboards.
Trichoderma
Trichoderma is an allergenic mold that is white-colored with green patches. Its common habitat are wet areas such as carpets, wallpaper, and other damp fabrics.
Aspergillus
Commonly sprouting around certain properties, Aspergillus can cause severe reactions. Some of its adverse effects are respiratory infections, allergic reactions, and inflamed lungs. In case this mold type won’t be eradicated in any area at home, it could surely impose inconvenience.
Aureobasidium
Typically found on wooden furniture, surfaces, painted walls, and wallpaper, Aureobasidium can be noticed through its black-pink appearance. According to certain studies, this type of mold is the worst because of its extreme effects on homeowners, such as intensive allergic reactions.
Alternaria
Usually found growing in the sink, shower, and dark areas at home, the Alternaria mold threatens homeowners with an asthma attack and allergic reactions. It is commonly found both indoors and outdoors.
Penicillium
This type of mold is often found in materials that have been damaged by water. It can spread easily from one place to another and is known to cause allergies and asthma.
Stachybotrys chartarum
Also known as “black mold,” it is one of the most dangerous types of mold and can produce mycotoxins, which can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, headaches, persistent cough, and in severe cases, bleeding in the lungs.
Fusarium
This mold can grow in cooler temperatures and typically affects wallpaper, carpeting, and other fabrics. It can cause allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and even damage to the nervous system with long-term exposure.
Ulocladium
Found in wet areas, especially in homes with water damage. It is associated with severe reactions such as hay fever, skin infections, and difficulty breathing.
Mucor
This type of mold can be found in damp areas, including HVAC systems or leakage areas. It can lead to the fungal infection Mucormycosis, which can cause symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, nasal congestion, and even blurred vision.
Chaetomium
This type of mold is often found in water-damaged buildings and homes. It produces a musty odor and can cause skin and nail infections.
Can Mold Make You Sick?
Many types of mold exist and they all have the potential to cause health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate or clean up any existing indoor mold growth.
These Are The Most Common Mold-related Symptoms:
- aches and pains
- changes in mood
- headaches
- memory loss
- nosebleeds
Why Should You Call A Mold Remediation Company?
Hiring a professional mold remediation company in Pompano Beach, Florida can save you both time and money. The simple truth is that they are prepared with the right equipment to safely deal with mold. A licensed company can and will also set aside a whole day to remove your mold while you go on with everyday activities like picking up the kids from school or grocery shopping. They take the tough task of planning for mold removal off your hands.
Dealing with different types of mold infestations at home is certainly serious trouble. Contact ServiceMaster Remediation Services at (954) 969-5906 for your mold inspection, mold removal, and mold remediation in Pompano Beach and nearby cities and counties. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
