Homes are prone to many types of issues, from foundation deterioration to pest infestations. Mold, however, remains one of the most common issues for homeowners. Here are 10 common types of molds found in the home.
Stachybotrys
Commonly referred to as black mold, Stachybrotys is commonly found in dark areas, and it thrives in poor air quality with excess moisture. Typically, it grows in the bathroom, basement, and ventilation systems as well as behind walls and under floor tiles. Stachybotrys is toxic.
Trichoderma
Trichoderma, also known as common house mold, is another toxic mold. It lives in soil and other organic matter and commonly affects wallpaper, carpet, and interior fabrics contaminated with dirt and debris. Trichoderma appears as wooly patches ranging from white to green in color. It produces mycotoxins that can spread to all areas of the home, and it can lead to wood rot and structural decay. It is also highly allergenic.
Ulocladium
Ulocladium appears in fluffy, wooly patches colored brown to black. It grows easily alongside other molds and is allergenic. Ulocladium commonly grows in appliances, bathrooms, drywall, and carpeting.
Serpula
Serpula is an allergenic mold that grows in wood. While rarer than other molds, it poses a structural risk by causing dry rot. Unlike other molds, Serpula doesn’t require moisture to destroy wooden beams and foundational support.
Aspergillus
This pathogenic mold commonly grows in HVAC systems. Although nontoxic, it travels as airborne particles that can cause respiratory irritation, asthmatic reactions, and lung blockage. Most importantly, aspergillus may produce cancerous aflatoxins that pose a unique risk for infants and people with compromised immune systems.
Penicillium
Penicillium grows anywhere moisture is present. It is blue-green in color with a smooth texture. Penicillium is an allergen that may cause asthmatic or cardiovascular reactions, but don’t confuse it with the antibiotic called penicillin, derived from a different strain of Penicillium.
Mucor
Another one of the 10 common types of molds found in the home is Mucor. Mucor can be allergenic or toxic, depending on the strain. It appears white or gray and grows in warm or room-temperature conditions. It is commonly known as pin mold, given its sewing-pin appearance.
Alternaria
Alternaria grows in moist areas such as the bathroom and windowsills. Alternaria is highly allergenic and can trigger hay fever, asthma, and other respiratory reactions. Alternaria is one of the most common molds found in residential properties today.
Chaetomium
Chaetomium is found in soil and organic matter, and flooding or plumbing issues can accelerate its growth. Chaetomium begins as a white fuzzy surface and darkens as it grows. Multiple strains can even grow on one surface.
Fusarium
Finally, Fusarium has a velvet- to cotton-like texture ranging from white to red in color. It is allergenic and potentially toxic. Fusarium commonly grows in compost or food disposal bins, carpets, and indoor fabrics.
If you detect crawl space mold, or any of these varieties of mold anywhere in your home, call The Crack Guys to take care of it. We offer mold remediation services with direct expertise at an affordable price. Call today to schedule your next appointment.
