Do You Have Black Mold Behind Your Walls?
The question we pose in the title is a bit of a trick one. Any type of hidden mold in a business or home can pose a health risk.
Black mold produces mycotoxins that usually do more harm to human and pet health than molds that do not have these mycotoxins. What most building owners do not realize is that there are many types of black-colored molds that are not toxic, as well as many non-black-colored toxic species. Stachybotrys chartarum (Stachybotrys atra) is the black mold that you usually hear most often about in the news.
Yet, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention points out, you should be worried about any type of mold hidden behind walls.
Various non-toxic molds exacerbate certain health conditions, such as a weak immune system or allergies, in anyone who is sensitive enough to them. Plenty of mold species also weaken the immune system and cause neurological damage in previously healthy people.
Signs of Hidden Mold
At Stern Mold, we recommend you get an immediate building inspection if any of the following applies:
- Visible mold growth or a musty smell exists.
- Wet spots and discoloration have appeared on walls or ceilings.
- Wallpaper or paint damage, such as cracking and peeling, recently started to appear.
- Rust has formed on pipes.
- Building occupants have complained of more allergies or “sick building” symptoms.
Warning: It is especially important to get an inspection if any of the above applies and one or more recent or past leaks or floods have taken place.
Stern Mold offers a free inspection and price quote. Contact us today at 888-887-8376 or use our convenient online form.