Black mold is like your in-laws. It comes into your home, camps out in your bathrooms, and doesn't want to leave. If you leave it alone long enough, it reproduces, creating more black mold. Before you know it, it's everywhere you look. Unlike with your in-laws, you can't file a restraining order on it or lock the front door to keep it out. When black mold comes, it comes to stay.
But we don't want it to stay. We want to get rid of black mold as soon as we see it. Because if we let it linger, in addition to growing and making our home look gross, it can produce a lot of nasty side effects in our bodies. That's why it's important to know what black mold is when we see it, why it's bad, and how to get rid of it.
What Is Black Mold?
The substance that we typically think of as "black mold" is called Stachybotrys chartarum (S. chartarum). It is a fungus, and it thrives in areas of stagnant moisture. This is why you might see it in your bathroom or kitchen walls and floors, or any drywall or wood where moisture is prevalent. The bathroom, in particular, is a common site for black mold growth because it is not always properly ventilated.
Why Is Black Mold So Bad?
Black mold spores can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them. People who are exposed to black mold might experience respiratory issues like asthma or sinus problems, including sneezing and a runny nose. It can also affect your pets. In other words, just like your in-laws, black mold can cause extreme discomfort.
How Do I Get Rid Of The Black Mold In My Home?
If there is not much black mold growth, you can remove it using hot, soapy water and scrubbing it away. Make sure you wear gloves. A face mask might also be a good idea to wear so that you don't accidentally inhale any mold spores.
But if you notice a lot of black mold growth, or if you still experience an allergic reaction whenever you enter your bathroom or another area that collects moisture, it might be time to call a mold inspector.
Call Us Today To Consult About Your Black Mold Problem
A mold inspection service, like what we offer here at BNF, can suss out the source of the mold growth in your home 95% of the time. We can also recommend professional mold remediation contractors who have the proper protective gear and the knowledge to treat every type of mold appropriately.
Schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more about our mold inspection services. We offer a free phone / Video Consultation
BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection service to determine potential risks. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free phone consultation!
Justin H. Joe, PhD, CIH, CSP, CPE, is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and a principal consultant of BNF Consulting, Inc. Dr. Joe graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with Ph.D. and MS degrees in nuclear engineering. Dr. Joe has provided industrial hygiene consulting as a core function with his diverse background of experience and education.
Source: Medical News Today