Mold is a very common problem in American homes. You’ve probably dealt with it at least once. Black mold is the most dangerous type of mold. Black mold is a controversial topic that has caused a lot of controversy and fear. It can pose health risks to your health.

How Long Does It Take For Black Mold To Grow?

Black mold is actually a generic term that covers many types of dark molds. These molds range from deep green to gray and even black. However, the mold most people associate the term with is S Tachybotrys Chartarum. Black mold, like most molds, starts as spores that can’t be seen with the naked eye. These spores can spread quickly and become colonies. Colonies are larger clusters of moldspores you can see growing on porous surfaces.

Black mold can grow in as little as one to two days if the conditions are right. The spores may begin to colonize and spread within three to 12 days after this initial stage. Although black mold may not be visible at this stage, you might notice signs in your home within 18 days.

How Quickly Does Black Mold Grow After Water Damage?

Black mold develops quickly because water is one of the main components for mold growth. S Tachybotrys chartarum can germinate within 24 hours. The mold will spread faster if it isn’t treated. Mold can quickly germinate in warm areas, so it is important to act immediately to mitigate the damage.

How Fast Does Black Mold Spread?

The first time a spore touches damp, fiber-rich material, cloth, drywall or other porous surfaces, mold begins to spread. Black mold can cover a large area of your home in a matter of days. Although this may seem like a lot, the spread of black mold can quickly spiral out-of-control as more colonies are created in your home. The rate at which mold can spread to entire areas of your home is cut in half even if there are only two mold colonies. Black mold can be a serious problem before you are able to detect it. Because mold can’t be seen until it begins colonizing, it is often not obvious to you until the spores start growing. You can begin assessing the damage immediately after you recognize that black mold is present. Take note of these things:

• The mold’s color
• Where is the mold located?
• Water damage to the area
• Any odours that are noticeable (especially a musty, dank smell)
• The area of mold visible

You can use the mold’s square footage to determine when professional help is needed. You may be able to manage the mold damage yourself if it is less than 25 feet squared. However, if the mold spreads beyond 25 feet, you should contact a professional mold removal expert for assistance.

Are Black Molds Dangerous?

Despite the widespread belief that black mold can be toxic, S Tachybotrys Chartarum is just as dangerous as any other type of mold. According the CDC there is no evidence linking black mold exposure and serious health conditions, such as skin conditions, respiratory problems or severe skin problems. Black mold can cause irritation to the skin in a variety of ways.
Black mold exposure can lead to side effects such as:

• Coughing
• You are wheezing
• Eye irritation
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• Itchy skin
• Throat irritation
• Rash
• Fever
• Breathing difficulties

Fever and shortness of breath are more common in severe cases. However, most side effects of mold exposure can be treated. People with severe allergies, asthma, COPD, compromised immune system, severe allergies, or other bodily sensitivities may experience more severe symptoms. There is no evidence to suggest that black mold can pose a threat to your health.

Is It Safe To Sleep In A House With Black Mold?

Although black mold isn’t as harmful as some believe, prolonged exposure can have more serious consequences. Black mold can cause severe symptoms, making it more difficult to fall asleep and to stay asleep. Even if you fall asleep easily, symptoms such as a sore throat, coughing or shortness of breath can make it difficult to get to sleep.

If possible, find somewhere else to stay if your home is affected by black mold. If you can’t travel, try to stay as far from the mold as you can. Seal any affected areas in your home that the mold has not spread to or isn’t as severe. Keep the mold in quarantine until you can begin treating the damage. To reduce mold exposure, you may want to sleep with a mask on your face. You may want to consider sleeping with a face mask to reduce the risk of mold exposure. However, not all masks are safe for you to use while you sleep. Your doctor might recommend a mask that is safe to wear.

What Should You Do While Waiting For A Mold Remediation Expert?

You may need to hire a mold remediation professional to deal with large-scale mold problems.
There are steps that you can take to reduce mold exposure in your home and the homes of others.

• You can seal the area. Reduce the area where mold can grow. Keep the doors that lead to mold-affected areas shut and close them as little as possible. You might consider putting foam insulation or plastic in the area under the doors.
• Use a fan. Fans can circulate air and disperse mold spores. They can also dry out moisture and make it more difficult for mold growth. Make sure that you have the windows open, and that the fan blows outwards. It is not a good idea to let the mold get back in your home.
• Use a mask. Wear a mask if you are required to go into an area affected with black mold. Although respirators and surgical masks are best in these situations, a simple T-shirt or a dry T shirt can help you breathe in the affected area.

It can be difficult to deal with black mold in your house, but it is possible. Do not wait to find out if there is black mold in your home. Take note of the spread and contact 911 Restoration of New Orleans immediately to get started on remediating it. Your house will be back in its original condition if you act quickly.