Where Does Black Mold Like to Grow?
Black mold can grow in many different places, putting the value of your home as well as your health at risk. Knowing where to look for black mold in your house and how to recognize it can help protect you and your family from its toxic effects.
Where Does Black Mold Grow in My House?
Humidity causes black mold to thrive. This means that anywhere with moisture and moderately warm temperatures is a breeding ground for fungal growth. Attics, basements, and bathrooms tend to be the first go-to places to seek out mold.
Dark, damp locations are the stereotypical fungal spots, but that doesn’t mean black mold can’t thrive elsewhere. Here are ten more places where mold can grow:
- Underneath sinks
- Inside your toothbrush holder
- In appliance seals and drip pans
- Under carpets and inside upholstery
- Underneath wallpaper
- In plumbing and ductwork
- Behind ceiling tiles
- In boilers and water heaters
- On or inside bath and pool toys
- In your car
What Are the Signs of Black Mold?
Despite its name, black mold isn’t always black. It can also be green, gray, brown, or even orange in color. And it often grows out of sight—the first indication that black mold might be present in your home is usually a musty “basement smell.”
Bubbling or peeling wallpaper, discolored ceiling tiles, or musty-smelling furniture are all signs that black mold may be lurking in your home. Properly identifying black mold can be tricky, so it’s always best to call in the professionals to keep your home clean and safe.
How Can I Prevent Black Mold?
The best way to prevent mold growth is to control the humidity in your home. Humidity levels over 55% are enough to foster black mold growth. Running a dehumidifier, installing proper ventilation and insulation, and repairing leaks immediately are all great ways to control moisture levels in your house.
Water damage is another main contributor to black mold growth. If flooding has occurred, mold can grow within 24-48 hours after the accident. The sooner you take care of water damage, the less likely you will need to call us for mold removal.
What Are the Health Risks of Black Mold?
Black mold poses the most danger to individuals with weakened or underdeveloped immune systems. Babies, children, and adults with preexisting conditions like asthma should avoid long-term exposure.
Mold allergies are also common, and can produce symptoms like:
- Coughing and sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Watery and itchy eyes
- Irritated nose and throat
- Dry and scaly skin
More serious symptoms caused by black mold include depression, chronic fatigue, and memory loss.
Can I Remove Black Mold on My Own?
Attempting to remove black mold yourself is never a good idea. If done incorrectly, you risk exposing your lungs to dangerous mycotoxins. Plus, you may not completely eradicate the problem. Our team is experienced in both mold inspection and mold removal. If you suspect mold is living rent-free in your house, call on us to evict your unwanted fungal tenants.
Mold Removal in San Francisco
For effective, demolition-free mold removal, contact the experts at My Pure Environment. We can quickly and accurately assess the air quality in your home and check for black mold during a free on-site consultation. Our experts will quickly assess the extent of your mold problem and provide a solution.
If you suspect there’s black mold in your home, call our team at 415-687-5374 right away!
