What Are the Types of Mold Found in Homes?

Mold is something that can stop a homeowner in their tracks It’s dread-inducing, not only because mold is an eyesore that brings potential health problems – it can also get expensive to remediate. 

Mold is a nearly $262 billion industry in the United States today. Knowing the different types of mold can help you both with your mold prevention and mold cleanup efforts. You will also be better able to recognize the signs of mold. 

Here are some of the different types of mold that you need to know about that are common in the household. 

The Main Types of Mold

Start by understanding the different categories of mold that are likely to occur in your home. These types of mold include pathogenic, allergenic, and toxic. Pathogenic mold is a type that is likely to cause health issues in people that already have certain conditions. For instance, mold can irritate your allergies or trigger your asthma symptoms. 

Allergenic mold isn’t toxic, but can cause allergic reactions. Toxigenic mold is dangerous across the board and can even prove fatal. Since mold can range widely based on these categories, it’s important to quickly pinpoint the type that you are dealing with so that you can get the help of a professional that can quickly assist you in getting rid of it. 

Aspergillus

This is a type of pathogenic mold that is commonly found in Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Damp, warm conditions are among the major causes of mold across the board, so it’s expected that HVAC systems would be a breeding ground. 

Aspergillus can create mild to serious respiratory issues both in people who already have conditions and those who don’t. 

Ulocladium

Ulocladium is a form of allergenic mold that people commonly have in their households. This type of mold often breeds in the bathroom because of the shower and underneath drain systems. 

You might also find them in laundry rooms and behind refrigerators that dispense ice and water. 

Chaetomium

Chaetomium is another form of allergenic mold that is white and fuzzy. It grows in damp conditions and can eventually go from white to black when left unchecked. You might mistake it for black mold, which is far more dangerous. You are likely to find Chaetomium in homes that have experienced significant water damage due to flooding, pipe bursts, and other problems. 

Once you understand these different types of mold, you’ll be better able to prevent and remediate them. Things like preventing basement flooding can be a great way to keep mold issues at bay. 

Get the Mold Remediation That You Need

Now that you’re aware of the different types of mold, you’re in a position to do something about it. The next step you need to take is getting in touch with a mold remediation pro that can assist you. They’ll take a look at the type of mold you’re dealing with and will help you get back on the right track. 

Check out our other posts when you’re ready to learn more home improvement tips that’ll help you get the most out of your property and life as a whole.