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There are different types of mold found in nature, many of which are not harmful, but mold is not something everyone wants to see inside the home. Experts say that diseases like toxic mold syndrome have no scientific basis and are just hype; However, mold can cause reactions in people who are allergic or have a weakened immune system when it grows indoors. Black mold (‘Stachybotrys chartarum’) is a variety of mold that can be particularly difficult to remove. It feeds on cellulose-rich building materials like wood and drywall and can breed in damp areas. Black mold grows quickly, which is why homeowners should learn to identify black mold as soon as possible.
Don’t want to do it yourself?
Professional mold inspection may be the answer. Get free, no-obligation estimates from authorized service providers near you.
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Difficulty: Beginner
Estimated cost: $ 8 and more if you use a mold test kit
Before you start …
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If there is a lingering musty odor in the home, or if a member of the household exhibits persistent black mold symptoms such as breathing problems or allergic reactions, hire a licensed mold inspector to assess the home and test the home. presence of mold. While it is possible to learn how to identify toxic black mold yourself, it can be more difficult to identify and remove mold without proper training.
Tips for Identifying Black Mold in Your Home
- Black mold feeds on cellulose and typically grows on or near building materials like drywall and wood.
- Black mold thrives in damp areas.
- Black mold often grows inside walls first, which means homeowners can often smell it before they see it.
- Black mold can grow in air ducts, window sills, kitchens and bathrooms, all of which are common sources of accumulated condensation.
- Sealants and grout can be vulnerable to black mold. Since they are usually found in high humidity areas such as the shower, it is essential to carefully check the caulk and tile in the bathroom.
Security considerations
- Always wear protective gear when identifying, touching, and cleaning up any mold, including coveralls, face shield, safety glasses, and non-porous gloves.
- Clean and disinfect protective gear and tools after mold has been assessed. Microscopic spores can linger on surfaces and form new colonies if contacting surfaces are not properly cleaned.
- If large amounts of black mold are present during inspection, contact a professional mold remover immediately. If an owner tries to get rid of black mold on their own, they can leave mold spores behind, which will lead to their recolonization.
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STEP 1: Inspect the color first.
What does black mold look like? As the name suggests, cured black mold is usually black, but it can appear in different colors such as dark green, dark gray, or brown before taking on its characteristic black tint.
It’s easy to mistake black mold for dust or dirt. Black mold usually has smaller spore groups and is condensed in an isolated area. However, if it has had time to grow in wet conditions, it can move to different parts of the wall or room.
There are many strains of mold that come in different colors, including white, yellow, or green. Black mold can be the same color as black mold and not be the same strain. Black mold explicitly refers to “Stachybotrys chartarum”.
STEP 2: Try to find a source of the musty smell.
Homeowners may need to use their noses to detect the source of black mold. Black mold may not have a strong odor if it begins to grow. When mature, black mold will have a strong earthy odor, similar to dirt or rotten leaves. Established black mold has a pungent odor than other types of household mold.
STEP 3: Check if it has a wet and viscous texture.
While other types of mold may have a fuzzy and light texture, black mold will generally be slimy or damp. Some early forms of black mold have a powdery appearance. Scrub the mold with a paper towel to determine the texture, but be sure to wear gloves, a face shield, coveralls, and safety glasses when approaching the mold.
Don’t want to do it yourself?
Professional mold inspection may be the answer. Get free, no-obligation estimates from authorized service providers near you.
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Be careful not to touch the mold with bare hands or touch your face with materials that have been in contact with mold. If you touch black mold with your bare hands, run them under hot water and wash thoroughly with soap as soon as possible.
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STEP 4: Use a mold test kit to confirm the presence of black mold.
Homeowners can confirm the presence of mold using a mold testing kit, which can be purchased at a home improvement store or online. There are different types of kits available and they can cost as low as $ 8 or over $ 300.
While the initial collection only confirms the presence of mold, samples can be sent to a lab that will determine the type of mold. These additional scans can range from $ 40 to $ 70. Although the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says it is not necessary to identify the type of mold present before treating it, the information can help homeowners with a return of mold.
To test for mold, follow the directions on the test kit. The test will take about five days to confirm or rule out the presence of mold. If mold is detected, homeowners can send the test to a lab for analysis. It may take up to eight weeks to receive results from the mold type.
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STEP 5: Create a plan to clean and eliminate black mold in the affected area.
Once the presence of black mold is confirmed, clean it up and remove it. If the black mold is in its infancy or is located in a small area, it is possible to remove it yourself. With an anti-mold solution such as tea tree oil, sodium borate, vinegar or bleach, clean the mold using a nylon bristle brush and old rags or paper towels.
If the black mold is widespread or in a hard-to-reach location, or if you are concerned about the health risks, it is best to contact a mold removal specialist.
These tips will teach you how to identify and how to get rid of black mold. When in doubt, always seek professional help to make sure your home is mold free.
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