7 Of The Most Common Types Of Mold Found In Homes
Molds are microorganisms that grow in the presence of food and water. Mold is a kind of fungus, and growths are sometimes referred to as "mildew". Inhaling mold spores can be dangerous and have severe health effects on humans, especially for those who have mold allergies. Symptoms of mold exposure include asthma attacks, rashes on the skin, itchy eyes, and illnesses like sporotrichosis, aspergillosis, and valley fever.
Mold Types Found In Homes
Allergenic – These molds can cause allergic reactions but are typically harmless to your health; however, allergenic molds can result in structural damage to your home if exposed to organic materials like wood.
Pathogenic – Pathogenic molds can cause serious health risks, especially in people who have underdeveloped or compromised immune systems.
Toxigenic – These molds are the most dangerous to your health and can result in illness or even death. If you discover these molds in your home, immediate action should be taken by professional mold removal companies.
Listed below are the 7 specific types of mold that are most commonly found in homes:
Chaetomium
Chaetomium is an allergenic mold that is caused by flooding and water leaks. This mold starts out as a white fuzzy growth, and can age into a black mold.
Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys is a toxigenic mold most commonly known as black mold. These molds are commonly found in ventilation systems like air conditioners and heaters. This mold is extremely dangerous and should be removed by licensed professionals.
Alternaria
Alternaria is an allergenic mold that is most commonly found in bathrooms and showers where moisture is present. This mold causes allergic reactions in people and can trigger conditions like hay fever and asthma, making it dangerous for those with compromised immune systems.
Ulocladium
Ulocladium is an allergenic mold that commonly grows in waterlogged drywall, carpet, and damp appliances. This mold is black in color and requires lots of moisture to thrive.
Serpula
Serpula is an allergenic mold that is found in wooden structures. This mold doesn’t cause particularly harmful health effects, but it can cause damage to your home’s structure. Serpula does not need high levels of moisture to thrive, and is sometimes referred to as “dry rot”.
Mucor
Mucor is a mostly allergenic mold with one toxigenic exception. Mucor is a broad term for more than 40 species of white or grey mold. One of these species, “Mucor indicus”, is toxigenic because it can lead to fungal infections and kill living tissue.
Aspergillus
Aspergillus is a pathogenic mold that is commonly found in HVAC systems and buildings with water damage from floods or leaks. Some Aspergillus species can cause asthma attacks, allergies, and respiratory irritation. Aspergillus spores can be found in the air and they are harmful, especially for people with damaged immune systems.
Contact DCM Environmental!
Mold can start off as a little spot and grow rapidly, so it’s important to test for it and remove it as soon as possible. If you suspect mold in your Massachusetts home, contact us today for mold testing services! Give us a call at (617) 481-5782 or fill out the contact form on our website!
