Once black mold has taken hold in a home, it must be eradicated. And, using extreme caution and protective gear, you can remove small areas yourself. However, because it grows so quickly, black mold usually requires a licensed professional to safely remove it from a home. If the black mold infestation covers 10 or more square feet, a professional should handle the removal. Removing large mold colonies requires exposure to heavy-duty chemicals and permits for the proper disposal of infected building materials. Local public health departments can offer advice on mold testing and refer you to an expert mold remover.
What Is Black Mold?
Stachybotrys chartarum, more commonly known as black mold, appears as a colony with a dark green or black slimy surface. It is most often found in areas inside a home that have been exposed to excessive amounts of water and humidity for an extended period of time. While not always readily visible, black mold can develop behind sheetrock walls and ceilings on wood infrastructure. S. chartarum produces mycotoxins, or potentially poisonous chemicals. Exposure from skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion may be dangerous to humans and animals. Because so many molds look similar and emit a musty odor, the only way to be certain that your home is infested with black mold is through professional testing. However, almost all types of mold that are growing in large colonies in a home have the potential to be harmful to your respiratory system and should be removed, with measures taken to prevent regrowth.
How to Manage Black Mold Exposure
If you have discovered black mold in your home, there are steps you can take to help limit your exposure until the colony is cleaned away.
How to Prevent Black Mold Growth
Since mold spores are everywhere, even in dry climates, it is possible for a colony of black mold or other toxic molds to form in your home. However, there are steps you can take to help prevent the growth of any type of unwanted mold. Be sure to dry shower stalls and tubs with a squeegee after every use. Save wet jobs like mopping floors, steam cleaning fabrics, or power-washing surfaces for a warm, breezy day so the surfaces dry quickly.
