Mold Removal

Mold Removal | Different Types of Common Molds in Homes and Businesses | ServiceMaster of Greater Pittsburgh

Posted on by Matt Nelson

Mold Removal | Different Types of Common Molds in Homes and Businesses

There is a large amount of misleading information about the harmful mold that grows inside of buildings. Most people who haven’t had to deal with a mold problem believe that mold only grows in old buildings that aren’t cleaned or lived in. While those places can have mold, it is also true that mold can grow anywhere, and isn’t always noticeable.

Any type of mold is dangerous, and should be removed by a professional who can ensure it is fully eradicated and prevented from coming back.

Aspergillus – This type of mold is very common and rarely causes any type of reaction. However, if left unchecked, it can spread and become harmful.

Cladosporium – This mold is often found within flooring, fabrics, carpet, and cabinets. Cladosporium spores travel easily in the air, which can cause severe respiratory problems.

Alternaria – Places like showers, sinks, and tubs can have Alternaria mold growing on them and have been known to cause some serious reactions like rashes and swelling as well as asthma symptoms.

Chaetomium – This type of mold is usually found within water damage. Most people can identify this type of mold by its green coloration and musty smell. If left unchecked, it can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

Aureobasidium – This mold can be found on wood, whether it be furniture, within the walls, windows, and flooring. It also likes to grow on caulk. It can be identified by its light green coloration and dark spots. Aureobasidium is prone to causing allergic reactions that can be very harmful to children and the elderly.

Stachybotrys Chartarum – Often called “Black Mold” or “Toxic Mold,” this type of mold can be extremely harmful. It can be identified by its dark coloration and causes severe illnesses like asthma attacks, depression, respiratory problems, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, cramping, muscle aches, and other allergic reactions. It can usually be found at or near water damage and requires professional mold removal

services to ensure it is fully removed from the building. If you suspect you have black mold, you must call Service Masters immediately.

Penicillium – This is another harmful type of mold that is known to cause respiratory problems, infections, rashes, swelling, and inflammation. This type of mold also spreads quickly, so professional mold removal services are required if you suspect to have this type of mold.

Fusarium – This type of mold isn’t as harmful as some but can become harmful with prolonged exposure. It can be found in dark and damp areas.

Trichoderma – This mold likes areas that are damp. It is a very harmful mold that causes allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses because of the mycotoxins in the spores that float through the air, similar to “black mold.”

Ulocladium – This mold is more uncommon than others because it only grown in flooded areas or other places with long-standing water damage. However uncommon, it still can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

Serpula Lacrymans – This mold mostly grows outdoors but can still be found indoors if the environment is right for it. It likes to grow on damp wood or wood that is drily rotted. It can be identified by its yellow coloration.

It is recommended that anyone contact Service Masters of Pittsburgh (412) 419-3253 if any type of mold is found within a building. Don’t wait, call TODAY!

Mold Removal | How to Detect and Prevent Mold in Your Home | ServiceMaster of Greater Pittsburgh

Posted on by Matt Nelson

Mold Removal | How to Detect and Prevent Mold in Your Home

Mold that grows in buildings due to water and moisture can be extremely harmful to people and animals. It is a known fact that these types of molds cause severe illnesses and even cancer. It is imperative that every building, whether it is a home or business, is mold-free. Sometimes it is difficult to know if a building has mold or not. It can grow anywhere there is moisture. Most people don’t have the equipment and the know-how to detect mold, and if it isn’t obvious, it can be left to harm the people who live or work in the building.

Luckily, there are professionals who specialize in mold detection, prevention, and removal. These specialists use state-of-the-art equipment and proven tactics to detect all types of molds anywhere in a building. If mold is found, then the mold removal specialists will use commercial-grade mold removal products that are safe for the building, people, and animals. They will then figure out why there is mold growing in that particular space. It is common to find mold where there is a water leak of some kind. Water leaks usually come from old pipes, damaged roofs, and cracks in the building’s foundation. It is also common for mold to grow in areas that are humid.

To help prevent mold, buildings should have some type of airflow, whether it be from the HVAC system, open windows, or fans placed throughout each room. It is important to keep the inside of the building at an optimal moisture level. Bathrooms are notorious for getting mold, so installing a good fan or making sure to open a window when using the shower will help prevent mold from growing.

Cleaning is also a large factor in preventing mold. While it isn’t possible to clean inside the walls and in between floors, it is possible to clean the corners of a room, wiping down the baseboards, and cleaning tiling and showers, and other common places that mold likes to grow.

If you suspect you may have mold, want a mold inspection done, or need mold removal services, call Service Masters of Pittsburgh at (412) 419-3253 today.