Understanding the Difference Between White and Black Mold
Mold is a common household problem that comes in many colors, two of which are white and black. While white and black mold have many similarities, there are also key differences in terms of looks, characteristics and health concerns. In this article, we will go over the difference between white and black mold, we will debunk some of the most common myths, provide you with the facts and explain the best methods of mold removal.
What is White Mold?
White mold is another common name for powdery mildew, a type of mold that often appears as a dry, powdery or fuzzy growth on wood, paper and other organic material, and plant debris. Powdery mildew is nontoxic, and not a producer of mycotoxins, unlike some other mold. Mycotoxins are poisonous organic compounds produced by certain types of mold that can cause health problems and, in severe cases, even lead to death for humans and animals.
Characteristics of White Mold:
1. Color: White mold is white or gray in appearance. It might also be yellowish or light green, depending on environmental conditions and the type of organic substrate it is growing on.
2. Texture: White mold usually has a fluffy or cotton-like texture, looking like a coating of gossamer on infected surfaces. This downy look helps to distinguish the mold from other types that might be slimy.
3. Preferred habitat: White mold needs a dark, damp, humid environment with poor ventilation – in other words, high moisture content, such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens and crawl spaces. White mold grows easily on wood, drywall, paper, fabric, plant materials, and other similar surfaces.
Health Risks of White Mold:
Though white mold itself isn’t toxic, long-term exposure to the mold spores and other allergens can result in allergic reactions and respiratory diseases for sensitive individuals. The most common symptoms of mold exposure include sneezing, coughing, wheezing, nasal stuffiness, and skin irritation. Those with asthma, allergies and immune compromised conditions may also be affected more severely by mold exposure.
Remediation of White Mold:
Usually, white mold remediation involves the removal of affected materials and the elimination of moisture issues, in order to prevent reinfection. Here are some steps for effective white mold remediation:
1. Identify and Mitigate Moisture Sources: Upon inspection, identify sources of moisture that may be responsible for the existence of mold. Addressing leaks, water intrusion issues and humidity problems are crucial in preventing re-growth of mold.
2. Replace Infested Materials: Remove and discard heavily infested materials such as moldy drywall, insulation, carpeting, and fabric. Use appropriate PPE and containment measures to limit exposure to mold spores during removal.
3. Wipe and Disinfect Surfaces: Wipe down and disinfect any remaining surfaces using a bleach mixture of 1 cup of bleach to five cups of water. This reduces the number of mold spores, allergens and other debris, and prevents mold growth on the treated surfaces.
4. Increase Ventilation: Try to improve ventilation in the area to promote airflow and reduce moisture. Open windows and doors, use fans and dehumidifiers to encourage drying and prevent condensation.
What is Black Mold?
A species of fungus called black mold (or Stachybotrys chartarum), which is dark greenish-black in appearance and slimy in texture, grows in damp settings and releases mycotoxins, or toxic substances, that can cause harm.
Characteristics of Black Mold:
1. Color: black mold is greenish-black in color but may also present as a slimy dark green growth.
2. Territory: Black mold loves a damp, dark and warm place to grow, where airflow is blocked. The most common indoor places to find black mold are where water damage has occurred, such as in your crawl space, bathroom, kitchen, and any areas of your home that have a history of flooding or water leaks.
3. Health Risks: Black mold can produce mycotoxins which are toxic and can cause various illnesses in humans and animals, prolonged exposure to the black mold spores and mycotoxins can lead to respiratory issues, neurological symptoms, hormonal effects, skin irritation and other many health issues.
Common Myths and Facts About Black Mold:
Myth: All black mold is toxic.
Fact: Some, but by no means all, strains of black mold produce mycotoxins, discernible by their rancid odors. Black mold can be recognized as any type of mold that happens to turn black. The mere presence of black mold is not synonymous with a health risk, as between 10 percent and 20 percent of all molds commonly found in damp buildings appear black.
Myth: Black mold is always visible.
Black mold is occasionally found in spaces hidden from view, such as behind walls and under floorboards or in HVAC systems. The presence of mold in areas visible to the casual observer does not mean the problem is entirely resolved. This is an example of a ‘fact’, which needs to be modified to remain believable: ‘Black mold can occasionally be found behind wallboards, under carpeting, and in HVAC systems and other concealed places. Even when mold is not visible, it might be present.’
Myth: Bleach is effective for removing black mold.
The Fact: Not always, especially not on porous surfaces such as wood or drywall, where it only removes surface mold but leaves underlying mold growth completely intact. It also causes noxious fumes to be released, and is a health hazard.
Myth: You can remediate black mold yourself.
Truth: homeowners can handle small, isolated instances of black mold remediation, but if the extent of infestation or the area makes use of special equipment or the skills of mold removal professionals, it really is best to have it done by an experienced expert in mold remediation. Not only will this remove all existing mold but it will also minimize exposure to mold spores and mycotoxins.
Remediation of Black Mold:
Black mold remediation involves cleaning and removing affected surfaces and materials, as well as fixing any underlying moisture problems to prevent the mold coming back. Here are some steps for a proper black mold remediation.
1) Select an Infestation Level: Review the levels of infestation (small, moderate, severe) and determine where your infestation falls. Then see which materials are impacted and which areas have been affected.
2. Containment: Maintain containment to prevent spreading of mold spores to unaffected areas. Plastic sheeting, negative air pressure machines, HEPA filtration devices, and other methods can help to preserve containment and prevent spores or dust from exiting an area during remediation.
3. Dispose of Contaminated Materials: Dispose of material that is too heavy with mold growth, such as moldy drywall, insulation, carpeting, and fabric, along with the plastic sheeting, filtration fans, and any other PPE used for removal.
4. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces: Thoroughly clean and disinfect remaining surfaces with products and techniques designed to remove mold, mycotoxins and debris and to inhibit mold growth on those surfaces that are treated.
5. Damp-Proof Treatments: Look for sources of dampness that could be feeding the black mold. Fix leaks, improve ventilation and cut humidity to stop a repeat of the problem.
Do You Have Mold Issues? If You Think You Do, Call Us Toll Free, 1-855-947-6167 – For a Free, No Obligation Quote by a Professional Mold Remediator Near You!
