Identification

• Mold is caused by the growth of fungal spores which are present both indoors and out. When these spores find an area of moisture, they begin to grow. Stachybotrys chartarum is blackish-green mold that has been associated with serious health effects in people with mold allergies, the elderly and the very young. This black mold most often occurs on material with high levels of cellulose and low levels of nitrogen, such as paper, lint and dust. For black mold to grow, there must be a constant source of moisture or high humidity.
  
  

Effects

• The Center for Disease Control urges homeowners to treat all mold seriously. If black mold or any type of mold is growing in your home, there is no safe distance and it should be removed. Mold spores become airborne and float all through your house. Living in an environment with mold can cause an increase in asthma attacks and cause allergic reactions in some people. Killing mold spores is not enough to prevent adverse health effects because even dead mold spores can cause serious problems if touched or inhaled. Those with immune-related illnesses often develop fungal infections after being exposed to mold.
  
  

Solution

• Remove mold from hard surfaces by scrubbing it with liquid dish detergent and rinsing it with water. Once the mold is gone, allow the moldy area to dry thoroughly. Always wear protective goggles, a mask and long sleeves when removing mold. Anyone who is allergic to mold or has asthma should not attempt to remove mold themselves or even be present when mold is being removed. If porous objects such as carpet or ceiling tiles have black mold growth, discard the items and replace them since removing mold from porous surfaces is difficult.
  
  

Considerations

• According to North Dakota State University, removing any type of mold is the only safe option for homeowners. After removing the mold from your home, you must find the source of moisture and repair it to keep mold from returning. Mold testing is not recommended since it is often costly and mold should be removed regardless of its color.