What is Black Mold?

No mold is good mold. That being said, there are some types of mold that are worse than others. Yup, we’re talking about stachybotrys chartarum — but you may know of it as “black mold.”

Black Mold

Black mold is a toxic fungus that rapidly reproduces in warm, wet areas. Though mold can be found anywhere inside or outside of a home, it’s most often found in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.

Symptoms and Health Effects

Breathing in black mold can have a number of negative effects on your health, especially your respiratory system. The most common symptoms are chronic coughing, sneezing, excess mucus, fatigue, and headaches.

Identifying Black Mold

You may assume, based on its descriptive name, that black mold is pretty identifiable. But, that’s not always the case. Black mold can be dark green, brown, and even grey, making it sometimes hard to identify. To positively identify black mold, it must be tested by a trained professional through a microscopic exam.

Eliminating Black Mold

Because black mold is toxic, you should never try to clean it yourself. Instead, call a trusted team of professionals, who have the equipment and experience to handle black mold.

Preventing Mold in the Future

Dealing with black mold is a hassle that can really take a toll on your home. So your best defense against it is a good offense. Be proactive this year and prevent black mold from growing with these tips:

• Especially in the warmer summer months, you should leave a dehumidifier on in basements and crawlspaces.  
• Always keep gutters and downspouts facing away from your house, to prevent flooding and excess moisture.
• Prevent water from building up on your walls by leaving windows open during the day and improving air flow.
• Use paint and gloss finishes that are mold and mildew resistant.

Are you in need of a high-quality mold removal service for your Long Island home? Look no further than GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration! Our methods are environmentally safe and proven to work. We service all of Nassau and Suffolk County. Contact us today at 631-940-8100 for a FREE quote.