Common Types of Mold and How to Get Rid of Them

Finding mold in your home can be a disturbing and frustrating experience. Although the presence of mold is very unsightly, it is actually pretty common. Leaving mold unchecked can pose certain health hazards in your home. Mold can also lead to ongoing issues, from respiratory problems to property damage. Make sure you pay immediate attention to any signs of mold, assess the situation, and decide on a proper course of action for removal or remediation. We at All Aspects Waterproofing have over thirty years of experience with mold remediation and mold removal.

Common Molds Found in the Home

There are thousands of different types of mold found in nature. While most species of mold are harmless, some dangerous mold species can cause certain health conditions. This becomes especially dangerous for residents with pre-existing health conditions, such as allergies or asthma. A few types of mold commonly found in the home are:

• Alternaria: Can cause asthma-like symptoms in the upper respiratory tract. It is frequently found in showers and tubs, beneath leaky sinks, and in homes that have suffered water damage. It has a velvety texture with dark green or brown hairs.
• Black Mold (Stachybotrys): Also known as “toxic mold” because it releases mycotoxins that can cause a host of medical issues, including difficulty breathing, sinusitis, fatigue, headache, a burning sensation in your airways, a persistent cough, nose bleeds, fever, and even depression. This mold appears slimy and black or dark green and is commonly found in organic materials such as wood, hay, and cardboard.
• Ulocladium: Also black in color, this type of mold is found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements – areas where there are high levels of condensation or where there has been water damage. It can cause severe reactions that include hay fever, skin infections, and difficulty breathing.

Mold Removal

The best way to keep your home mold-free is to prevent it from forming in the first place. Dehumidifiers are your best weapon against moisture buildup. Simple remedies to remove small patches of mold include a lot of sunshine to create dry conditions, increased ventilation, additional insulation in the walls, and dehumidification. If you choose to handle the mold removal yourself, make sure to wear adequate protective gear. The CDC recommends wearing long pants and a long-sleeve shirt, protective gloves, and eyewear, waterproof boots, and a mask rated at least N-95 or more to protect your nose and mouth. However, it is always best to let a professional handle any type of mold removal. Contact us today for our specialized services!

Contact All Aspects Waterproofing Today for Your Mold Remediation Needs

Whether you need a new sump pump installed or want to waterproof your entire basement, contact All Aspect Waterproofing, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company with over 30 years of experience in the Washington, DC./Maryland/Virginia area. We have a great deal of experience in waterproofing, mold testing, and mold remediation, and we want to make you feel at home again. Contact us online or by calling 1-866-999-3110 or 301-766-4420. To see what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Houzz.