3 Mold Questions Answered

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Bangor, PA

When your property in Bangor, PA, starts to develop a musty smell, your first worry might be black mold. Before you panic, ask yourself if you know enough about mold to be sure that it is the reason your business needs a good scrubbing.

What is Mold?

Mold is a fungus that spreads through airborne spores. There are many species of mold, but here are some common types and where they can be found:

• Aspergillus grows on starchy foods such as potatoes
• Penicillium cultivates in damp areas like basements
• Cladosporium spreads in fabrics and carpets
• Stachybotrys chartarum or “black mold” thrives in wet, humid areas

Identifying mold is not an easy task. Many species look similar and change throughout their growth, so asking a mold remediation specialist is the best way to know what is growing on your wall.

What Causes Mold to Grow?
Mold needs moisture, nutrients and time. All of these can be found in your building. Moisture can come from a leaky pipe or a poorly ventilated bathroom. Mold feeds on cellulose, which is found in building materials like wood and drywall. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it only takes mold 24 to 48 hours to settle. If you have a moisture problem hidden in your ceiling, mold will have the time it needs to grow.

What Does Finding Mold Mean?
When you find mold, look for the water issue that is aiding mold growth and get it repaired. Simply spraying the fungus with bleach will not get rid of all of the spores, so ask an expert for help. Mold cleanup is a process that includes inspection, containment, air filtration and removal of contaminated materials. While extensive, this process ensures that the job is done right.
Any type of mold, not just black mold, is a concern, but by understanding the fungus, you have already taken the first step to keeping it out of your business.