Learn About Mold

Common Mold Types

Aspergillus is a mold that is usually found on food products and air-conditioning systems.

Cladosporium is a mold that may be found growing on painted surfaces, toilets, and air ducts.

Black mold is known to produce certain toxins, known as mycotoxins, that can lead to health problems. As its name suggests, toxic black mold can be identified due to the color, which will be black or a blackish-green color.

Susceptible Areas and Signs

Mold can grow anywhere there is moisture or water. The most vulnerable areas of a home or building where mold may grow include:

Bathrooms

Obviously, bathrooms have an abundance of water sources making these areas inviting for the growth of mold. Common places for mold to appear in a bathroom include the shower, tub, toilet, sink, and shower curtain.

Basements

Basements are places within a home or building that usually have poor ventilation, may see water infiltration, and contain broken pipes, meaning moisture is prevalent.

Crawl Spaces

Like basements, crawl spaces can become areas where mold is found. Water may drain and accumulate in the crawl space, creating an environment for mold to grow.

Attics

Attics can be areas where mold grows on different types of building materials. If ventilation systems are positioned in attics, mold may enter these systems and spread throughout the home building.

Kitchens

The kitchen is a place where mold has numerous chances to grow including water in, under, and surrounding the sink as well as food products left on countertops or stored in cabinets.

Laundry Rooms

Laundry rooms are areas where the humidity and temperature is high, allowing mold to grow in or on washing machines, dryers, sinks, and clothing.

HVAC or Air Conditioning Systems

HVAC or air conditioners may cause condensation creating pooling water inside or around the system and inviting mold growth.

Vents and Ventilation Systems

Humid air running through the ventilation system of a home or building may create a welcoming environment for mold growth. Additionally, the system may distribute mold spores throughout the entire structure.

Windows

Windows, and areas surrounding windows, may collect moisture and invite mold growth. Often, mold finds its way into the structural lumber and building materials around the window, causing damage.

Fireplaces and Chimneys

When not being used, fireplaces and chimneys are damp and dark places, making them welcoming locations for mold.

Garage and Storage

Garages and storage areas can be areas susceptible to moisture and poor ventilation, which is attractive for mold growth.

Signs and Indicators

A mold problem can usually be identified either by visual or olfactory senses. Because mold growth is often hidden, the first indication may likely be a noticeable musty odor. When that odor is detected without visual evidence, it’s important to check under flooring, inside ductwork, in between bathroom tiles, behind walls, and in moisture-prone areas.

Removing and Remediating

Mold is not something that should be ignored. When it is discovered, it should be removed and remediated, especially toxic black mold, which can cause serious health problems. During the removal and remediation process, spores of the toxic black mold need to be contained to prevent and limit their spread throughout the home or building. Due to the complexities and dangers associated with properly removing and remediating black mold, a professional is recommended.

Sherlock Homes Property Services is a professional mold removal and remediation company that offers the technical knowledge, expertise, and necessary equipment to safely remove and remediate mold from homes and buildings. We’ve been providing mold removal and remediation services to customers throughout northwest Ohio, northeast Indiana, and southeast Michigan for over 17 years.