You probably already know that mold isn’t a good thing to find in our homes, and so we’re all informed at the hazards this substance can present if allowed to grow. The last thing any of us want is to harbor mold growth because it produces a toxic substance that can cause us serious health concerns.

However, there may be things about molds that you aren’t aware of. Knowing these common facts can help you figure out whether or not you need to be concerned over mold growth in your New Jersey home.

What Molds Are

According to the Centers For Disease Control (CDC), molds are classified as fungi. many people will use the terms fungi, molds, mildew, and algae interchangeably. However, mold is a fungi that is found inside and outside of your home. They thrive in areas that are damp, humid, moist, and warm.

Mold spores are released by mold when they grow and reproduce. The spores are toxic to our health when allowed to grow. With the proper growing conditions, they thrive, but even with the wrong dry conditions, they can survive harsh environmental conditions and lay dormant until once again activated.

What Are The Common Mold Species?

Common indoor molds are:

• Cladosporium – olive green to black or brown colonies. Wide spread, triggers asthma.
• Penicillium – often green, can be white. Found on food, highly toxic mycotoxins.
• Alternaria – greenish. Causes hayfever or hypersensitivity reactions.
• Aspergillus – ranges in color. Some species can cause infection, lesions, ulcers.

Just of the above mold types, there can be hundreds of subspecies of mold per each type. Some people are more sensitive to molds than others, so the effects can be from mild to serious.

How Molds Can Affect You

From giving you allergies to death, molds can have serious to little affect on your health. Depending on the species and how well your immune system functions, you may have varying reactions to mold compared to someone else. Those with weakened immune systems are at the most risk of mold growth.

• Upper Respiratory Infections
• Breathing Problems Like Asthma
• Lung Diseases
• Pneumonia

Where Are Molds Found?

Molds are everywhere in just about any environment you can find. They are both indoors and outdoors and are found year round. When mold grows, it’s the spores they release as they reproduce that are toxic.

Molds are normally found growing or thriving in shady, damp places especially where leaves or other organic debris has been sitting and decomposing. Inside our homes, they lurk in the shadowy, moist hidden areas inside and under cabinetry, wall spaces, attics, flooring, under carpeting, in the basement, near plumbing, and in showers.

What To Do About Mold

If you suspect you have mold growing in or on your home, it’s best to call in a professional who can test for mold growth and handle the problem if mold is found. A mold remediation company will professionally test for mold and can effectively remove it from your environment. All County Waterproofing, LLC in the Union, New Jersey area is New Jersey’s best option for mold remediation services.