Common Types Of Household Mold To Look Out For

There are several different types of mold that are common in homes throughout the United States. Our mold restoration technicians at American Restoration in the Owasso area encounter them each and every day. Thus, it is important for you to understand these different types of mold and what it means if you find them in your home.

Alternaria
Alternaria is the most common form of allergenic mold in the world. It typically has dark green or brown hairs. It is most often found in bathtubs and showers and is known to cause minor respiratory problems.

Aspergillus
Commonly found in American households, Aspergillus is commonly found on walls and ceilings. Typically, it is an allergenic mold but can become more dangerous at times depending on the environment it is in and produces the known carcinogen, aflatoxins.

Chaetomium
Chaetomium is usually found in water-damaged homes and buildings. It is distinctly noticeable due to its musty odor. As for its health effects, it can cause skin and nail infections. In serious cases, it can produce mycotoxins that pose a more dangerous threat to those with compromised immune systems.

Cladosporium
Cladosporium is an allergenic mold type. It is unique in that it can grow in both warm and cold conditions. It is often found thriving in indoor materials such as fabrics, upholsteries, and carpets. Cladosporium typically causes allergic reactions to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Exposure to Cladosporium causes skin rash and lesions, asthma, lung infections and sinusitis.

Fusarium
Fusarium is capable of growing at low temperatures just as is Cladosporium. It can quickly spread from room to room in your home so it is important you catch it early. It is allergenic and toxigenic and thrives in homes affected by water damage. Exposure to fusarium typically causes minor issues like a sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. More seriously, however, prolonged exposure can lead to extremely dangerous conditions like bone infections and brain
abscesses.

Mucor
Mucor is allergenic and grows in thick white or gray patches. It can cause an array of health conditions most commonly affecting the respiratory system. In the most severe cases, those who have been exposed to Mucor for an extended period of time can get Mucormycosis which is a fungal infection that can damage the sinuses, lungs, and brain.

Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys is also known as the nefarious “black mold.” It is a toxigenic type of mold that can also cause allergic reactions. Stachybotrys mold is dark greenish or black in color and has a slimy texture. Stachybotrys thrives in damp, wet areas with high humidity levels. Symptoms from exposure to Stachybotrys are difficulty breathing, depressions, headaches, and neurological problems in children and infants.

Now that you are aware of all these different types of mold that may be found in your home, we hope that you will be able to recognize specific types of molds when you see them. When you do notice it, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals. Our restoration technicians at American Cleaning in the Owasso area are just one call away!