The Many Different Types Of Mold
The Many Different Types Of Mold
Most people do not realize that there are literally thousands of different types of mold that can invade and poison your home. Fortunately, not all mold types are toxic; unfortunately, it is almost impossible to know whether the types of mold you have in your home are toxic or not, unless you have testing done by professionals. This type of testing, and the subsequent removal process, can be rather expensive; but when you consider the damage that different types of mold can do to your health, the cost is worth it.
Most Common Types Of Mold
There are three different types of mold that are the most common: black mold, toxic mold, and allergenic mold. While all molds can cause allergy-like symptoms, and some black molds are toxic, not all molds fall into the same category. Molds come in all different colors, but the most common are black, green, and white. These mold spores are around us at all times, even when they have not created enough damage to be visible to the naked eye.
Of the different types of mold, toxic mold is by far the most dangerous to have in your home. This mold can cause such extreme health problems like severe upper respiratory infections; encephalitis; and in rare cases, even death. Although there are a number of ways that you can remove mold yourself, toxic mold should only be removed by professionals who are used to dealing with bio-hazardous materials. If you or any member of your family has experienced recurring health problems recently, it may be due to one of the many types of mold that are toxic, and you should have your home tested immediately.
Allergenic molds are exactly what they sound like. These types of mold cause allergy-like symptoms in people of all ages although the symptoms affect children and the elderly more readily. The symptoms caused by allergenic molds mimic those of common colds; and may include: stuffy or runny noses, scratchy throats, and watery eyes. Sadly, these symptoms are often misdiagnosed; so it is important to pay attention if they keep occurring.
Black molds can fall under either of the above-mentioned types of mold, or in a class by themselves. While not always either toxic or allergenic, black molds can still cause quite a bit of damage. They quickly rot wood, drywall, and plaster; and, if allowed to go unchecked, can quickly take over an entire home.
If you suspect that your home is infested with mold, it is important that you have it tested right away. Although you may have a less hazardous version of the different types of mold, you can still save yourself a lot of money in the long run by having it removed by professionals before it overruns your home.