Common Mold Misconceptions

9/21/2016 (Permalink)

mold

Mold is always present. Molds and mildews are very common indoors and out, and spores in the air can quickly latch on and begin to grow on any surface where there is moisture. Most people hold many misconceptions about mold and the best tactics on how to keep their home healthy and clean. Here are some of the most common mold misconceptions:

1) Mold is safe to clean myself

No matter what type the mold is, it is always important to take all precautionary measures in order to prevent exposure. Because mold releases spores, the cleaning process can increase the amount of spores in the air exponentially. It is best to hire restoration professionals that are trained in mold removal and damage repair. SERVPRO has helped clients with Los Osos water damage restoration, ensuring that all of the hazardous materials are properly disposed of.

2) Black mold is “toxic” mold

Technically, no mold is “toxic.” Some molds are toxigenic, which means that they can create toxins, but mold itself is not poisonous. Many molds, however, and any large colony of mold can produce enough spores to create unhealthy conditions, especially to asthma or allergy sufferers. Stachybotrys is the black strain of mold that is most commonly associated with adverse reactions.

3) This mold isn’t black mold, so it isn’t harmful

The color of mold does not always indicate its toxicity. Mold can colonize in various colors such as brown, green, white and yellow as well as black. Any significant colony of mold can create increased levels of spores present in the air. Stachybotrys mold can be hazardous, but there are also other species of mold such as Alternaria, Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium, that can be unhealthy as well if the colonization is extensive.

4) I’ve cleaned with bleach, so the problem is fixed

If the mold has begun to colonize in a porous material such as paper, drywall or wood, then surface cleaning with a watered down bleach solution is not always an effective solution. SERVPRO professionals will take the steps to address more extensive mold problems as they have done for Los Osos water damage restoration clients in the past.