What is Mold?
Does Southern California Have Black Mold?
Yes, Southern California has black mold! Mold is part of the natural environment and grows everywhere. Mold works in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees. Without it, we would be up to our ears in decomposing plant and animal matter! However, the growth of mold indoors should be avoided. Mold grows when mold spores, which are already present come into contact with a good food source and sufficient moisture. Mold often flourishes in places you'd least expect. In a recent study, mold was identified on 88% of windowsills, on 83% of refrigerator seals, under 82% of sinks, and on 49% of shower grout.
Mold has the potential to cause health problems, because they produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions) irritants and mycotoxins (chemicals produced during mold growth. Inhaling or touching mold may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold.
Toxic Black Mold
Fortunately, we already know more about practical issues - what black mold is, how you get it and how to prevent it. It's time to learn what the enemy is so you can avoid it. Catch any mold early, and it will be easier to eliminate, otherwise you could face a more expensive problem.
A word of warning to the property owner: Black Mold is becoming the newest home repair scam. Don't deal with anyone who just shows up at your door or calls on the phone to offer you mold testing. That's not how reputable mold inspection or mold remediation companies operate.
Check For Mold tests for and advises on mold remediation throughout the greater Los Angeles area in Southern California, including Orange County, the Inland Empire and San Diego.
If you think you have Black Mold, don't panic! Most mold looks black. The toxic black mold that has made recent headlines is formally known as Stachybotrys Chartarum, or Stachy (STACK-ee) for short - and it is actually has a greenish-black color. Black Mold typically grows in dark hidden places - under carpets, behind your walls. Exposure to black mold has been linked to some serious health effects. If you suspect that you have a black mold problem, do not try to get rid of the mold yourself - call a professional.
Everyone suddenly seems aware of black mold - homeowners, insurers, builders, folks in the medical field. So far, government and private research is still spotty and often contradictory. We await further results from the ongoing research surrounding mold and its harmful effects.
If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 1-877-470-MOLD (1-877-470-6653).We are here to help.