Black Mold From Water Damage: Is It Making You Sick?
Water damage can cause major problems for homeowners, and one of the most serious issues is the growth of dangerous black mold. While not all molds are hazardous to your health, black mold can pose a significant threat if it’s allowed to grow unchecked in your home. In this blog, we’ll explain what black mold is and how it develops from water damage, as well as the ways it can make you sick if not handled properly. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent its growth. Contact Texas Disaster Restoration when you experience mold or water damage.
What is Black Mold?
Black mold is a type of fungus that produces toxins known as mycotoxins which can be harmful to humans when inhaled or ingested. It usually grows in areas with high moisture levels such as basements, bathrooms, around windows and pipes, and in attics due to water damage. It has a slimy texture and usually appears in shades of green or black but may also be white or gray.
How Does Water Damage Lead To Black Mold?
Water damage caused by floods or leaks can create an ideal environment for black mold growth inside your home. The visible signs of water damage like dampness on walls and floors encourage the growth of fungal spores that eventually form colonies of visible mold. If left untreated for long enough periods of time the black mold will spread throughout the house creating a serious health hazard for those living inside.
What Are The Health Risks Of Black Mold?
The mycotoxins produced by black mold are known to cause respiratory problems like coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing among other symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and irritation to the nose or eyes when exposed over long periods of time. In some cases, prolonged exposure could even lead to more serious illnesses such as asthma attacks in people who have pre-existing conditions related to respiratory issues.
How Can I Prevent The Growth Of Black Mold?
Preventing the growth of black mold starts with addressing any current water damage within your home immediately before they get worse. Repair any plumbing leaks that could be causing dampness and use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low especially in areas like basements where moisture tends to accumulate faster than usual due to lack of ventilation or frequent flooding during heavy rains periods. Cleaning any visible spots of mold with soap & water works in most cases but if you are dealing with an infestation then you should contact professional services like Texas Disaster Restoration that specialize in fire & water restoration alongside specialized treatments such as mold removal from inside homes and buildings damaged by flooding incidents.
Black mold caused by water damage poses a serious threat for homeowners who don’t address existing damages quickly enough before it spreads through their house creating health hazards for those living inside over extended periods of exposure. Taking preventive measures such as repairing plumbing leaks, using dehumidifiers, and cleaning visible spots with soap & water can help you keep things under control but if you face an infestation then contacting professional services like Texas Disaster Restoration might be necessary depending on the circumstances.
