Common Types of Mold You Might Find in Your Home

When it comes to home maintenance, one common and potentially hazardous troublemaker that often goes overlooked is mold. Mold can grow almost anywhere—from ceilings, walls, carpets, to wood structures, sometimes remaining unnoticed until it causes significant structural damage to your house or serious health issues.

Let's shine a spotlight on the most common types of mold you might find in your home, aiding you in identifying and addressing them promptly.

Stachybotrys

Stachybotrys, also referred to as toxic or black mold, is a toxigenic mold that thrives in moist, damp environments like air conditioning systems and other moist locations. This mold consists of the Stachybotrys chartarum and Stachybotrys chlorohalonata varieties, both of which negatively affect health.

Stachybotrys stands out through its slimy surface texture and greenish-black tint. It typically appears as little black spots that spread and enlarge on cellulose-type substances like wood, drywall, or moist leaves. However, not every black mold is Stachybotrys.

Stachybotrys is particularly connected to sick building syndrome and has been related to a wide range of symptoms, including debilitating headaches, nosebleeds, irritation in the respiratory system, exhaustion, and depression. It can also result in pulmonary hemorrhage in young children and infants.

Aspergillus

Aspergillus is a group of fungi that tend to thrive in the atmosphere and in air conditioning systems, particularly those in buildings that have experienced water damage. It can be found in a range of colors and has more than 185 species. The majority of types of Aspergillus are carcinogenic, while other species have the potential to create aflatoxins.

Aspergillus exposure can cause allergic reactions, respiratory discomfort, and irritated lungs, among other symptoms. Additionally, some people with compromised immune systems may be more vulnerable to the fungus aspergillosis. Aspergillus spores often have a flask-like shape and grow as thick levels or layers of mold.

Alternia

The most prevalent mold that causes allergies is the Alternaria species, which belongs to the ascomycete genus. It often has a velvety feel with filaments that range in color from dark green to brown.

Due to its low moisture requirements, Alternia is most frequently seen in bathrooms, behind sinks, openings, and bathrooms, as well as on upholstered and soft furnishings. It spreads fast and readily and can cause symptoms such as asthma, allergic reactions, and upper respiratory diseases.

Mucor

Mucor is a genus of mold that usually grows in warm, wet conditions, such as old and damp carpets. Mucor develops as a white or gray mold that spreads quickly and generally shows up in large regions. The majority of Mucor species are only allergic.

However, Mucor indicus is a toxic species that can result in zygomycosis, a fungal infection that can kill live tissue. In more extreme instances, it can potentially result in mucormycosis, a blood infection. Since Mucor is an allergic mold, inhaling its spores can cause asthma episodes and breathing difficulties.

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is a form of allergenic mold that is often found indoors in upholstery, carpets, sink undermounts, and cabinet interiors. It has a velvety, suede-like feel and can be any color from olive to brown.

Cladosporium frequently enters homes through the air on items of clothing or animal fur and can swiftly proliferate in environments with high humidity. Its spores can be inhaled and result in several respiratory problems, such as a throat infection and itchy sinuses, as well as problems in animals like runny eyes and sneezing.

Additionally, after growing outdoors on plant matter, the mold typically enters the house through unlocked windows or doors. As a result, Cladosporium colonies are particularly prone to colonizing any areas with inadequate ventilation, including wooden surfaces, carpets, insulating material, bathroom ceilings, wallpaper, and wall cavities.

Rather than handle mold infestation in your house by yourself, let a seasoned mold professional handle such problems to ensure your family's safety. Contact us at Household Environmental for mold remediation services in the New England area.