Just because you can’t see mold doesn’t mean it isn’t there.
When talking to a mold remediation specialist, it can sometimes be hard to understand exactly what you are dealing with; from the species of mold to the sheer panic people suffer when thinking about something weird being grown in their basement. This guide is to explain the types of some common indoor molds that can grow in our homes.
Mold Classifications
There are more than 100,000 types and species of mold floating around. Just like everything else in the world, not all of these molds are deadly serious. They are classified into three different categories.
- Allergenic molds can cause allergies to flare up. People with asthma and who have weak immune systems are susceptible to allergies due to mold.
- Pathogenic molds can cause severe health issues in people who have weak immune systems. It is best to get this mold removed from your house by a professional.
- Toxic molds produce harmful toxins that can cause grave health problems, and rarely death. This type should be removed as soon as possible by a specialist. There are two main types of mold in this category
- Stachybotrys (commonly called Black Mold) can be found in wet material and can be harmful to people and animals. This strain of Stachybotrys is known to produce poisonous toxins which can be fatal to animals. Humans can also exhibit symptoms.
- Memnoniella is another contaminant that is mostly found along with Stachybotrys on wet material. It is very much like the toxins found in Stachybotrys.
Common Indoor Molds
Although there can be many different molds found in homes, these are the most common ones found inside them.
- Alternaria- found not just in U.S. homes, but in homes across the globe. This type of mold causes allergies such as hay fever, asthmatic reactions, and other allergies.
- Mucor- found in soil and animal droppings, it is also present in household dust. Causes allergies and can cause lung infections in people with weak immune systems.
- Penicillium- found in soil, food, dust, and decaying food. Can cause allergies in humans.
- Aspergillius- an allergen that can cause hay fever, asthmatic reactions, and lung infections. It doesn’t usually affect people with strong immune systems but can produce harmful toxins that can be fatal for those with weak or compromised immune systems.
Contact Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group
If you or a family member suspects the presence of black mold or any other type of mold in your home, contact the professionals at Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group. With more than 30 years in the mold remediation industry, we have the experience and tools to help you. Contact us at 410-258-3579 or 1-877-591-MOLD (6653).
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Tags: Information, mold, mold knowledge, Non-Toxic, Species of Mold, Toxic, Types of Mold