When it comes to dangerous molds in the home, most people think of black mold. They’re usually referring to Stachybotrys chartarum, a greenish-black mold that comes with a strong reputation. You may be wondering, “How long does it take black mold to grow?” When should you start taking action against it?
At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, we treat mold and odors as well as other water damage issues. That’s because mold and water damage issues go hand-in-hand—when you see mold, it’s because there’s moisture buildup that’s allowing it to thrive. Even too much humidity in the air can be a risk factor for mold growth! And while black mold is one of the more famous types of mold, many species can be equally harmful to your health and your property.
Today, we’ll look at a few big questions: how long it takes for black mold to grow, how to spot growth in the first place, and what to do when it appears.
Dealing with Black Mold and Other Harmful Mold Types
How Long Does It Take Black Mold To Grow?
You may think mold takes a long time to appear because it’s often associated with signs of neglect or infrequent use. The truth is, black mold and other mold species can appear incredibly fast. In most cases, mold growth can appear in as little as 24 hours after a moisture event. This sort of event can include leaking or flooding, but mold can also result in areas that are frequently damp or spaces with high humidity.
In fact, damp spaces are some of the most common habitats for black mold in the home. Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements can be especially prone to growing black mold. They can also appear on windows and near doors. With long-standing moisture issues, you should always be on the alert for potential mold growth.
How Can You Spot Black Mold?
Mold isn’t always visible to the human eye. That’s especially true when dealing with very small amounts of mold or mold growth beneath surfaces. When in doubt, you should always check with professionals if you’re worried about mold.
With that caveat, here are a few signs that black mold is present on your property:
- Patches of growth inside your home. Black mold is visually distinctive and appears black or green in color. By the time it’s visible to the unaided human eye, it’s growing in dense colonies, which appear as spots. It’s usually slimy to the touch as well.
- A strong mold odor. Not all mold species produce an odor, but black mold does. The smell is typically described as musty or damp, and is a pervasive odor that doesn’t go away easily. If you’re finding a similar smell, you’ll want to have a professional investigate further.
- You may have an allergic reaction. Not everyone is sensitive to mold growth, but it’s relatively common to have symptoms after interacting with mold. This can include congestion, sneezing, irritation of the eyes, and other cold-like symptoms. Those with respiratory conditions may have difficulty breathing.
How Should You Deal with Black Mold?
Mold is fast-growing and tenacious, making it especially difficult to remove effectively without professional intervention. It’s important to note that even if you’ve discovered a water source for mold or visible evidence of mold, it’s very possible that mold growth is present elsewhere in your property, hidden from view.
Removing the source of water intrusion is one of the most important steps for dealing with mold. That means addressing a leak, flood source, or other issues that may be triggering growth. From there, it’s important to get a professional assessment to see the full scope of the issue.
At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, we treat mold precisely and thoroughly, with fast-acting strategies that are tailored to your specific situation. Prior to treating mold, we can help to dry up moisture, including moisture below surfaces. We don’t just stop after treating mold, either. If your property is damaged as a result of mold growth, our professionals can assist with the repair process, too.
Combat Black Mold with 1-800 WATER DAMAGE
From fire damage to water damage to mold growth, one call will solve it all. At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, we understand how badly these problems can affect your home or business. With an exacting standard of care, we deliver fast-acting solutions backed with expertise and professional-grade equipment. We have locations across the nation—so when you need help, you always know who to turn to.
It doesn’t take long for black mold to grow, so make sure you address the issue as soon as it appears. Contact 1-800 WATER DAMAGE to learn more about our mold removal services.
