The Dangers Of Black Mold
Bathroom mold is something that everyone has to deal with. It’s annoying, a pain to clean, and just plain gross. While some mold is normal and can be easily dealt with, black mold is something that you need to be aware of. In this blog post, we will be discussing what black mold is and how you can take care and prevent it from forming in your home. Keep reading to learn more!
WHAT IS BLACK MOLD?
Starting off, what is black mold? Black mold is a fungus that is scientifically known as Stachybotrys chartarum or Stachybotrys atra. There are two types of of molds, toxic and non-toxic. It can be difficult to identify which molds are toxic and which are not without the proper scientific tests, so it’s better to play it safe and take care of mold right away. Mold is not a healthy thing even if its non-toxic. So, it’s important to keep your eyes out for any mold that’s forming. Typically, we see water damage and moisture as the main culprit of mold forming, but it can also come from poor air quality in the affected part of the home or building. Not to mention, if you’re in an area with humidity, this can also cause mold to form due to the moisture.
Spotting black mold in your bathroom or home is not difficult, due to its black color that makes it visible to the naked eye. You’ll typically see black mold on the walls that has formed in cracks or divets in the tile or wall. It also tends to grow along the joints and corners of areas. Ceramic tiles can also house fungus faster than porcelain. Mold will also grow anywhere where there are water leaks from pipes or roof leaks.
Mold likes to attach itself to any dead organic substances. However, they are airborne, which means that they can be easily transmitted into your home. If you have mold particles floating through the air, even the pores in your walls and windows can start to hold this substance. Typically you may see black mold on ceilings, cardboard, damp wood, and sometimes cotton substances.
AREAS WHERE YOU SHOULD BE LOOKING FOR MOLD ARE:
Areas of high humidity: These can be a playground for mold to thrive in. Black mold is seen in bathrooms due to the high levels of moisture in there. These moisture levels typically come from the shower and the steam that rises from the water. Of course, we understand you need and want your privacy and aren’t saying you need to shower with the door open, but after you’re done make sure to leave the door open so that air can easily flow in and out.
Leaking pipes: If you have a leaking pipe, you should get it fixed as soon as possible. Leaking pipes can be dangerous by themselves, but they are also prime real estate for mold to live in.
Leaking roofs: Roofs are also popular victims of black mold. Just like pipes, leaking roofs can lead to an abundance of other problems but they can also house harmful mold. If your home’s roof has been leaking, check for mold on the ceiling surrounding these areas, even if the roof is fixed.
Flooding: If you’ve experienced flooding due to natural causes or not, you need to check for mold. If your home has carpet or areas that may take longer to dry out, inspect the area for mold.
Cracked paint: Cracked and peeling paint isn’t just unaesthetic, but it can also become a great place for mold to live and grow due to the moisture that has formed behind the paint.
Tile grout: As we mentioned, mold loves moisture, a.k.a. your bathroom. Tile grout is especially porous which can lead to water seeping through it and then causing mold to form.
If you’re noticing that your allergies are becoming more apparent than they usually are, mold may be the culprit of this. Just like typical allergy symptoms, respiratory problems can result if you’re allergic to mold growing in your home.
WHY IS IT SUCH A BIG DEAL?
Black mold releases lethal mycotoxin spores that can cause brain damage, pulmonary decay, immune system degradation, skin irritation, and can even be fatal. Black mold is a neurotoxin, meaning that the spores released by black mold attach to the brains neurons which can incapacitate your mental ability. The reaction can cause tremors, mood swings, and neurological shifts. Black mold can also endanger women who are pregnant. Black mold can be linked to birth defects, miscarriage, and infertility down the road. It can also harm your pets. They are extremely susceptible to black mold due since they’re lower to the ground and may even try to eat the substance.
You may also start to feel sick from the mold. Symptoms of exposure to black mold can include fatigue, headache, seizure, tremors, mood swings, confusion, fever, eye irritation, rashes, coughing, and bleeding of the lungs. It can also cause death.
HOW CAN I TAKE CARE OF IT?
Taking care of black mold can be relatively easy, as long as you’re catching it in time. Make sure that the mold that you’re seeing is actually black mold. The easiest way to identify this is the color. Mold can be black, white, green, red, and orange. If your mold is any other color than black, it’s not black mold. Most molds can be treated with a bleach solution. But if you’re unsure, call a professional.
Replacing the area where the mold has inhabited is another way to rid yourself of the situation. While replacing the whole ceiling is more of a feat than replacing the tile on your bathroom floor, this can ensure that you’re getting rid of the mold altogether.
If you’re specifically looking at tile replacement, this can be a pretty easy DIY (do it yourself) activity that is relatively affordable when it comes to your time and money. It can also be an excuse to redecorate your kitchen or bathroom and spice up your space.
At Transworld Tile, we’re one of Southern California’s largest tile showrooms and would love to help you rid your space of mold while still creating a beautiful space that you’ll be able to relax in. With over 31 years in the business, we’re a Top Rated Local® Tile and Design Service. We have everything from marble, glass, Mexican, stone, Italian, slate, porcelain, ceramic, and so much more. Visit our showroom in Los Angeles or contact us today with any questions! We look forward to hearing from you!
