Black Mold in Your Home: What It Is and What to Do in Georgia
Black mold has a scary reputation, and most of it comes from one species. What matters in practice is not the color but how much mold you have and why it is there.
The Short Answer
Black mold usually refers to dark-colored growth, sometimes the species Stachybotrys. Color alone does not tell you the species or the risk. Any significant indoor mold growth should be handled by finding the moisture source and removing the growth safely.
What It Looks Like
It may appear black, dark green or grey, often slimy or fuzzy, and tends to grow on materials that stay wet for days, such as drywall, ceiling tiles and wood. A musty smell often comes with it.
Health Concerns
Mold can aggravate allergies, asthma and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat in some people. Individuals vary, and symptoms alone do not prove mold is the cause. If you or a family member is having symptoms, talk to a doctor and have the home inspected.
What to Do
- Fix the leak or humidity problem first.
- Do not disturb large areas, because it can release spores.
- Keep people with respiratory conditions away from the area.
- Call a professional for anything larger than a small patch.
Professional Removal
Crews contain the area, filter the air and remove affected materials. See our black mold removal and toxic mold removal pages, or read our signs of mold guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all black mold toxic?
No. Color does not identify the species, and risk depends on the amount, the person and the exposure.
How do I know if I have black mold?
Only lab analysis identifies a species, but visible dark growth and a musty smell mean you should investigate.
Can I remove black mold myself?
Small surface patches on hard materials sometimes can be cleaned, but larger or porous growth should be handled by professionals.
What causes black mold in Georgia homes?
Persistent moisture from leaks, flooding, condensation or high humidity gives mold what it needs to grow.
The Bottom Line
Find the moisture, fix it, and remove mold safely. If you need help, contact Mold Remediation Georgia or call 1 (866) 364-0572. Our office is at 1150 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310, and we serve homeowners across Georgia.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Basic facts about mold and dampness. https://www.cdc.gov/mold
- Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. (2015). ANSI/IICRC S520: Standard for professional mold remediation (3rd ed.). https://www.iicrc.org
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). A brief guide to mold, moisture and your home (EPA 402-K-02-003). https://www.epa.gov/mold
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