Lurking in basements, corners, and around other dark, damp places in the house, black mold can create hazardous living conditions. Removing all traces of the dangerous spores is critical for protecting your family’s health and preventing costly property damage. To help you get a better idea about this type of mold, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.

What You Should Know About Black Mold

What is black mold?

This type of mold, also called Stachybotrys chartarum, releases spores that attach to your carpet, upholstered furniture, drywall, and other items in the home. Once there, they feed on the organic materials such as wood and fibers, which can cause the mold to expand on surfaces. While black is the most common color known, the mold can also be brown, green, or gray. 

What causes it?

Moist, dark areas are ideal environments for black mold to flourish. Once the spores are exposed to damp conditions, they start to create colonies in as little as 48 hours. Flooded basements and damaged roofs that cause water leaks to infiltrate a property’s interior are common spaces for mold incubation. 

What hazards does black mold cause?

The spores can trigger a number of health problems, including breathing issues, itchy skin and eyes, and a sore throat. For allergy sufferers and those with asthma, black mold is especially troublesome because its presence may trigger sneezing, watery eyes, and respiratory problems.

Depending on the amount, it can also damage furniture and walls. However, professional mold removal companies have the specialized equipment and cleaning products needed to save your property from permanent damage.

How do I know that black mold is in my home or business?

An air quality test administered by a licensed and certified mold removal firm is the best way to identify all traces of black mold. This thorough diagnosis scans all areas in a home or business by assessing spore counts.

While this mold can be visible to the naked eye, experienced technicians will test hidden areas such as under carpeting and in attics, which can be susceptible to trapped moisture or water leaks. 

Identification and total removal is the combination plan of attack for black mold. For more than 40 years, Big Mountain Insulators in Whitefish, MT, has provided superior remediation services for homes and commercial businesses throughout Bigfork, Browning, Cutbank, and Northwest Montana. The company follows industry guidelines to ensure properties are clean, safe, and mold-free. Schedule your inspection today by calling (406) 862-5446. Visit the website for more information on mold removal services.