Mold is a significant health risk to your family, causing issues like allergies and nerve damage. When you spot mold growth, you should schedule mold remediation and take preventative measures. The following guide will outline how to spot a few common types of mold and what you can do to prevent it in the future.

Common Household Molds

Fusarium

Fusarium is a fast-spreading mold that generally grows on food. It can then spread to household fabrics and carpets. It is pink, red, or white in appearance. Short-term effects of this mold include allergy symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes. However, it can cause issues like bone infections over time. Schedule mold remediation if you spot this species.

Alternaria

This is one of the most common types of indoor and outdoor mold, often growing in damp areas. Alternaria has a dark green or velvety-brown appearance. You will likely find it in showers, tubs, and dark areas like basements. It may also grow under your sink. This mold often causes respiratory symptoms like asthma attacks.

Cladosporium

This mold species appears in a variety of places, such as wooden cabinets, carpets, and fabric. It is usually brown or green, mimicking the appearance of suede. Cladosporium also causes respiratory issues.

Stachybotrys 

Stachybotrys, or black mold, is a toxic household mold. While it is often black, this mold can also be dark green. You will notice a musty smell if this mold is growing in your home. It usually grows in air ducts, pipes, walls, and wooden rafters, particularly after these areas have been wet for several weeks. Black mold causes severe issues like neurological conditions, depression, respiratory problems, and more, so have a mold remediation professional come immediately.

What Preventative Measures Can You Take?

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent mold growth in your home. Monitor your home’s plumbing and address leaks quickly. You should also clean your floors, carpeting, and walls frequently. Running a dehumidifier in your basement and attic may prevent mold growth in these damp environments. You should also schedule water cleanup whenever pipes leak or burst, as DIY cleaning is not thorough enough to prevent mold.

If you suspect that there is mold growing in your home, the team at America’s Best Cleaning & Restoration Services will provide thorough mold testing. Located in La Crosse, WI, these professionals serve residents in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Whether you need mold remediation or carpet cleaning, they will provide service to fit your needs and budget. You can call their La Crosse office at (608) 782-6995 for a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.