7 Common Types of Mold Found in Homes

Molds are simply microscopic organisms that can grow almost anywhere, whether it’s inside or outside of you Florida home. Mold especially thrives in damp or wet places with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is crucial for you to be able to recognize the different types of mold and know how to deal with them promptly. This is because some kinds of molds can be toxic and cause all manner of health issues for you and your family.

 

TYPES OF MOLD

The exact number of mold species is not yet known but it is estimated to range between tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand. Some, but not all types of mold are toxic or dangerous for our health.

Countries like the U.S. have grouped the indoor fungi into 3 hazard classes based on their associated health risk:

  • Hazard class A:
    • This class consists of fungi which have high metabolic products. These are generally hazardous to our health. Due to its health effects, immediate attention should be given in areas where this type of mold appears.
  • Hazard class B:
    • This class of fungi consists of fungi that causes allergic reactions if found indoors over a long period of time.
  • Hazard class C:
    • This class of mold is known not to be hazardous to our health. However, growth of this fungi indoors can cause structural damage to the building. This mold tends to thrive best in places like bathrooms, roofs, basements, as well as on window seals.

When mold is known to be harmful, it is then classified into the following categories:

  • First is the allergenic. These are molds that cause allergies and bring about allergic reactions such as signs of asthma.
  • Second is pathogenic. These are molds that cause health problems to those who suffer from acute illness.
  • Third is the toxigenic. These are molds that produce toxic substances and may lead to dangerous, and even deadly, health conditions.

 

It’s important to understand what type of mold growth you are dealing with when addressing it in your Central Florida home. Each mold has its own specific characteristic, growth pattern and health effect. It’s important to be aware of them so that you can know how best to deal with the situation.

 

1. Acremonium

This is a toxigenic type of mold which evolves in its appearance over time.

It begins as a moist mold which turns into a fine powdery substance and it is mostly grey, pink, white or orange in color.

This mold could be very toxic as it could lead to different types of immune system or bone marrow diseases.

 

2. Alternaria

This the most common form of allergenic mold in the world.

This type of mold is velvet textured with brown or dark green hairs. It is commonly found in showers, leaking sinks and in bathtubs.

As this is an allergenic mold, it’s known to provoke asthma and other allergic symptoms. It spreads quickly and should be removed as soon as possible before it becomes a widespread problem.

 

3. Aspergillus

This is also a common type of mold found in most Florida homes.

This mold is characterized by long flask shaped spores which form thick layers of mold. The mold can appear in many colours as it has over 180 species.

It can also be very toxic depending on the type of species. It may cause asthma, lung infections and respiratory inflammation.

4. Aureobasidium

This type of an allergenic mold thrives best behind wallpapers, or on wooden or painted surfaces.

It is brown, black or pink in colour. This type of mold causes infections in areas around the eyes and nails.

This mold should never be touched by bare skin as it can cause dermatitis.

5. Chaetomium

This type of mold is mostly found in homes and buildings that have been damaged by water.

Its texture is cotton-like with colours that change from white to gray to brown and eventually to black over time.

This mold can cause health effects like nail and skin infections. It may also produce mycotoxins which are dangerous to individuals who have compromised immune systems.

 

6. Cladosporium

This is also an allergenic type of mold.

It is unique in that it is one of the few types of mold that can grow in both warm and cold conditions. It also thrives best in indoors materials such as upholsteries, carpets and fabrics.

It causes allergic reactions to areas around the nose, eyes, throat and skin. Prolonged exposure to his mold can lead to skin rashes, lung infections, sinusitis and asthma.

It may not have toxic properties but should not be handled directly as it causes lung and skin irritation.

 

7. Fusarium

This type of mold, like cladosporium, is also capable of thriving in colder places.

It is allergenic as well as toxigenic and grows best in water-damaged homes. It is often white, pink red in color and grows best in food and compost.

It causes infections on the skin as well as allergic reactions symptoms. Prolonged exposure to this mold may lead to severe health problems.

Fusarium spreads rapidly from one room to another. If found, thorough examination should be done on areas around the home.

 

There is so much to know about the different types of mold.

And if you are unsure about your Central Florida home being infected by anything listed above, the best solution is always to contact a professional. It’s better to be safe then sorry when it comes to you and your home’s health.