The Dirty Dozen – 12 Common Mold Types Found in Homes: PART 1
Mold spores are a pervasive fungi consisting of over 100,000 unique variations. Now, while that may sound frightening at first, it’s reassuring to learn that only a tiny fraction of those 100k unique mold species are dangerous to human beings. In this multi part blog series we will explore 12 mold types most commonly found in homes — and how to recognize them.
1. Acremonium
First up is a toxigenic mold type known for it’s ability to evolve in it’s appearance over time. What starts out as a smallmoist mold spore morphs over time into an ultra fine, powdery substance that can range from grey to pink to orange or even white in color. Acremonium is known to to grow most commonly in humidifiers, drain pans, cooling coils and along windown seals.
Exposure Symptoms Include
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fingernail and toenail infections
- Arthritis
- Peritonitis
- Bone marrow damage
- Organ damage
- Weakened immune response
- Impaired brain function
2. Alternaria
More prevalent than Acremonium, alternaria holds the crown as the most common allergenic mold type in the world. A velvet-like textured, dark green or brown mold with little “hairs”, alternaria, like most mold, grows exceptionally well in damp areas. Alternaria is commonly found outdoors on dead plant material and amongst grasses and soil but it can also grow quite handily indoors as well. Areas like bathtubs, showers, window seals and beneath leaky sinks seem to provide the most ideal conditions for growth. Acute water damage inside a home or business building is another major contributor. Alternaria is a quick spreading mold that requires fast action to prevent widespread infestation.
Common symptoms of alternaria exposure include asthma-like reactions in the upper respiratory tract along with irritation and itchiness in the nose and mouth.
3. Aspergillus
Found throughout American households, Aspergillus is a very common type of mold. Today there are 185 known species of Aspergillus mold. Each with varying appearances. Coming into contact with Aspergillus is all but unavoidable as it lives outdoors and is found throughout decaying leaves, compost piles, plants and trees. For most people, everyday exposure to Aspergillus is no cause for concern. However, those with weakened immune systems can suffer from significant symptoms.
Risk Factors Include:
- Weakened Immune system
- Low white blood cell count
- Cavities in the lungs
- Long-term corticosteroid usage
Call The Mold Remediation Experts at H&L Restoration Today!
Given the wide variety of mold types in existence its nearly impossible to identify harmful mold species from their non-harmful counterparts. That’s why it’s always best to hire a mold removal expert to diagnose and remediate mold conditions as soon as their spotted.
