It’s the last week in March and that means we are just now reaching the next phase of Spring. Thirty degree days are changing into the mid forties, and soon, the rains will come. While the grass and trees welcome the showers, our homes could be in store for some nasty mold growth in the next few months. By understanding what kinds of mold can grow, what they’re like, and how they affect us, we can properly protect ourselves and our homes from these festering fungi.

Types of Mold in Home

• Stachybotrys Chartarum: Commonly known as black mold from its slimy black appearance, stachybotrys chartarum grows in places of continuous moisture. It can cause a number of health problems including mental impairment, respiratory problems, internal organ damage, and immune system deficiencies.

• Penicillium: Pencillium is commonly found in insulation, carpeting, wallpaper, and rotting fabrics. The difficult issue with penicillium is that it spreads easily and rapidly from place to place. While this is the mold that penicillin is derived from, it can still have adverse health effects like lung inflammation, allergy symptoms, and sinus infections.

• Cladosporium: Cladosporium grows on wood and fabrics, but it can also be found outdoors on plant matter. It usually enters the home through open windows or HVAC systems. Much less harmful than most, this mold can cause respiratory infections, allergic reactions, itchy eyes, coughing, and a runny nose.

• Alternaria: Alternaria is that mold found under your sink, in your shower, and pretty much anywhere damp. It also spreads easily and rapidly and actually doesn’t require a tremendous amount of moisture to spread once a colony has been established. It can cause allergy symptoms and the development of asthma. The young and elderly are at the greatest risk for health problems.

Four Seasons Plumbing Inspection

The origin of many of the mold colonies is rooted in plumbing problems. A leaky pipe or sink starts as a small drip and grows into black mold. The best way to prevent such issues is with a yearly plumbing check. The Four Seasons plumbers will be able to identify problem areas in your plumbing system and correct them before they exacerbate and develop something as dangerous as mold. Schedule your check today!