Black Mold: Hidden Dangers and Risks

You may know black mold by its other name: “sick building syndrome.” Greenish-black in color, it typically grows on surfaces where moisture is constantly present. The commonly known indoor molds are Penicillium, Cladosporium, Alternaria, and Aspergillus. You may not care about their names, but what they do is definitely a concern.

No matter what your business, you don’t need black mold to scare your customers away or pose serious health risks to your employees. People with asthma, allergies and weak immune systems have increased health risks when exposed to mold spores. Black mold in particular is toxic, and can trigger upper respiratory tract problems and serious fungal infections.

Other serious potential health problems from black mold include:

• nausea and dizziness
• gastrointestinal symptoms
• fatigue
• anxiety
• memory problems

The Threat of Black Mold to Your Business

Black molds grow in moist places, and aren’t just a problem for residential property owners. Commercial buildings are not immune to infestation. In fact, black mold is now considered a wide scale health threat—especially following a flood.

Molds grow where there’s stagnant water, as well as in storage places that contain rotten materials. It can also multiply under carpets and near water pipe leaks.

The very presence of black mold can pose a serious health threat to infants and pregnant women, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. Exposure usually happens by skin contact, inhalation, and even ingestion—none of which you want your business to be responsible for. Keep your commercial property clean and free from black mold and liability.

Mold remediation, especially for larger areas—from 100 square feet to 10 feet by 10 feet—should only be performed by trained professionals who are  experienced in the removal of black molds. This ensures that the molds are eradicated thoroughly and safely.

Black Mold Removal Preparation

Black molds can be removed from some surfaces using soap and water or a bleach solution.  However, when molds infest porous materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles and carpets, these must be properly discarded.

Before contracting the services of professionals, make sure that all sources of moisture and leaks are properly addressed. Otherwise, the mold growth is likely to return. Equipment that controls the relative humidity of an area can often effectively prevent the growth of molds.

Professionals also use power or environmentally friendly pressure washing to remove stubborn and widespread infestation of mold, especially in hard to reach areas.

The Known Hazards of Cleaning Black Mold on Your Own

Many people think they can save money by cleaning molds on their own. But be warned: inexperience and the lack of proper equipment can expose you to serious health threats.  During regular cleanup, mold spore counts can multiply by as much as 1000 times!

A few extra tips:

• The use of a respirator or mask is required to avoid breathing in any airborne spores.
• Protective gear should also be worn, then properly discarded after cleanup.
• During cleaning, the area should be free of bystanders, to avoid inadvertent contamination.

When Do You Need Black Mold Removal Service?

Here are some telltale signs:

• the appearance of mold dust stains and insect nests on any area of your property
• when you start seeing webs on the overhangs and eaves
• if there are green spots appearing on walls

Don’t leave black mold unchecked. Take the necessary steps to protect your business, your clients and employees and, of course—your commercial property.

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