Common Types of Mold
Common Types of Mold
While there are thousands of different mold species, mold remediation professionals rarely think of mold outside of these four major categories.
Black Mold
Homeowners call us most frequently about black mold removal, which isn’t surprising. Black mold is very unappealing to look at, and even a quick Google search will reveal that it can be toxic. Black mold includes aspergillus, stachybotrys and cladosporium. This is the mold that is most likely to trigger health issues. It often causes symptoms that mimic those of allergies or asthma. You may experience red eyes, sore throat, and even rashes. It’s important to act quickly when you spot black mold.
Green Mold
Green mold tends to appear first as dark spots and then later morphs into a distinctly green fuzz if not quickly addressed. Like all mold, green mold grows in moist environments. Classifications of green mold may include cladosporium, aspergillus, penicillium, or Alternaria, the most common allergenic mold in the world. The symptoms of green mold exposure are no different than the symptoms of exposure to any other mold.
Orange Mold
Orange mold is more commonly located outside and can appear more slimy than fuzzy. Orange mold grows very quickly and aggressively in wood, meaning that it is likely to be found on floorboards, ceiling beams and even your foundation. Walls that are exposed to highly acidic water, also known as hard water, are prone to developing orange mold.
White Mold
White mold looks very similar to a phenomenon called efflorescence. Efflorescence is a crystalline growth that occurs when water moves through a material and raises unbound salts to the surface. The growth is harmless and appears white and fluffy. While it looks very similar to white mold, it has a different chemical makeup. Efflorescence will typically dissolve right away when water is applied. It is also odorless, which is another big point of distinction from white mold. Additionally, there are some differences in the environments where you may expect to find efflorescence or while mold. Because it originates from relocated salts, efflorescence only occurs on concrete, brick or masonry. White mold grows easily in spaces like crawlspace framing and attic sheathing.
At Bright Restoration, or policy is to treat all mold aggressively until it has been completely removed. Even mold types that are considered non-toxic can produce adverse effects, so we remove all signs of mold regardless of the color.
Mold Damage Tips
Before doing anything else, read this! Many homeowners exacerbate their mold problems due to improper handling at the first sign of mold. It’s important to be educated on mold practices. Here are some tips you can follow right now!
Common Types of Mold
If you’re dealing with mold in your home, you probably know that mold comes in many different varieties. In fact, there are thousands of different mold species! We’ve created a guide to explore some common types of mold you may encounter.
Mold Remediation Process
From first contact, to site inspection and review, to containment, removal and air purification, we’ve customized the Bright Restoration mold remediation process help you fully repair your home quickly and responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don’t be confused by people who use the terms mold removal and mold remediation interchangeably. There is a difference between mold removal and mold remediation. Imagine if you had an infection. While a pain reliever might temporarily alleviate your pain, you won’t really begin to combat the infection until your doctor prescribes you with antibiotics. Similarly, scrubbing a surface area of mold may remove the mold from your wall temporarily, but it may also cause much more damage to you and also to your home. In true mold remediation, highly trained specialists will return the mold levels in your home to safety, as well as solve the moisture problem that was causing the mold growth in the first place. Make sure the restoration company you hire is accredited by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (or the IICRC), an internationally recognized organization responsible for providing certification to all mold specialists.
While we never advise that you handle cases of mold remediation yourself, there are certain situations where it may be safe. If the mold seems to be located on tile or grout (for example, on shower tiles), it is generally safe to handle it yourself using the correct safety precautions. On the other hand, if you can see mold on your walls, we advise you to call a professional restoration company. Mold on porous surfaces such as walls, hardwood floors, ceilings, indicate a good chance of mold growth behind the walls. Mold gives us a signal that the area is retaining moisture. In order to perform proper mold remediation to your walls or ceilings, you must first treat the source of the moisture so that the problem does not reoccur. It’s important that you know the difference between DIY and professional mold remediation circumstances. Also, if you’ve previously tried to clean mold in your home but have experienced a resurgence of growth, it’s definitely time to call a professional restoration company.
Mold remediation costs will vary from project to project. Each case is unique and requires a customized plan for successful mold remediation. Having said that, the general range is between $2,000 to $7,000, and is determined by the scope of the infestation, the extent of labor and the cost of materials used in restoration.
What Our Clients Say
“Michael dealt with our insurance company for us and got them to pay us for the entire project including the repairs! which saved us a huge headache! We were truly blown away by his level of professionalism. Water damage restoration in Los Angeles is a stressful process, but this team made sure that we were happy with the process every step of the way. So pleased with the work!”
“With the storm that hit LA recently, part of our ceiling in the living room caved in and unleashed all kinds of havoc. We were recommended Bright Restoration by a friends and we weren’t disappointed. From the moment these guys came to our home, we could tell they were experienced and professional. We felt safe in their hands every step of the process and you will too. Thanks, guys!”
