What Are The Most Dangerous Molds Found in Encinitas Homes?

Mold spores can enter our home through a variety of vectors, including open doors and windows, vents, pets, and on our clothing and shoes. The spores can grow on just about any surface but do particularly well on wood and paper products. All they need is a little moisture to grow.

As the mold grows, it deteriorates the surface material it’s growing on. Left unchecked, mold growth can cause massive damage to a home’s drywall, carpeting, ceiling tiles, insulation, upholstery, wallpaper, and more. If that isn’t bad enough, mold can also have a negative impact on your health and the health of anyone who lives in your home.

Most people aren’t affected by mold infestations. However, some people are sensitive to mold. For these people, mold exposure can trigger many symptoms, including stuffy noses, wheezing, coughing, red or itchy eyes, and skin irritation. Infants, the elderly, those with chronic respiratory diseases or compromised immune systems, and people with allergies or asthma are particularly at risk of adverse reactions to mold exposure.

The Most Dangerous Molds in Encinitas, CA

There are many thousands of different species of mold in Encinitas, CA. We’re exposed to mold every day. Fortunately, most molds are harmless. However, a few can be very dangerous:

• Stachybotrys chartarum. Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, produces mycotoxins that are especially dangerous to young infants.
• Penicillium. Penicillium causes food and other perishable goods to spoil. It is classified as an allergen; high levels can produce symptoms such as shortness of breath, irritated nose, sneezing, and coughing.
• Aspergillus. One of the most common molds. Exposure to excessive levels of aspergillus can cause allergic reactions, lung infections, and a unique type of infection known as aspergillosis.
• Fusarium. Fusarium commonly grows on water-damaged materials. Most fusarium molds are harmless. However, prolonged exposure can trigger mild to moderate allergy symptoms.

Other potentially harmful species of mold include Cladosporium, Bipolaris, Geotrichum, Ulocladium, Trichoderma, and  Alternaria.

Controlling Mold Growth Inside The Home

It’s almost impossible to keep mold spores out of our homes. However, there are many ways you can keep mold growth under control:

• Control indoor humidity levels (try to keep it between 30% and 50%);
• Repair leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Know the signs of hidden water leaks
• Thoroughly clean and dry the inside of your home after flooding, disposing of anything that can’t be cleaned.
• Ventilate shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

Dealing With a Mold Problem in Encinitas, CA

How do you know if you have a mold problem? If you can see or smell a mold infestation, you have a mold problem.

Mold grows as a result of moisture inside the home. The first step is to locate and address the source of the moisture. Next, surfaces with mold growth need to be cleaned and dried. Items contaminated with mold growth will need to be cleaned and dried if possible; or removed and replaced if necessary. Once the mold has been removed, you’ll have to assess the extent of the damage and make the needed repairs.

Professional Mold Damage Services in Encinitas, CA

Remediating and repairing mold damage is a job best left to professionals. 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration has provided expert mold and water damage repair services to home and business owners in Encinitas, CA, and surrounding communities since 2012. Our team of mold damage specialists has the training, experience, and equipment to determine and address the source of mold growth, clean and dry any areas of the home or items affected by mold growth, and repair any mold-related damage.

Contact 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration through our website or call us at 866-437-0205 to schedule a visit from an Encinitas, CA mold damage specialist.