Identifying Mold

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Common Types of Mold

Mold is a fungus that can be found almost anywhere, indoor and outdoor.  They come in all shapes, sizes and colors but the most common types of mold include:

• Acremonium - Toxigenic mold type that evolves in its appearance over time. Typically grows in humidifiers, cooling coils, drain pans and window sealants.
• Alternaria - Most common form of allergenic mold. Typically grows wherever dampness occurs (showers, bathtubs & below leaking sinks.)
• Aspergillus -  Common mold found in American households. There are over 185 species of aspergillus mold, it can appear in many different colors.
• Aureobasidium - An allergenic mold that can sometimes be found growing behind wallpaper or on painted or wooden surfaces.

• Chaetomium - A mold commonly found in water-damaged homes and buildings. Has a cotton-like texture and usually changes colors over time.

• Cladosporium - An allergenic mold type. Can grow in both warm and cold conditions. Often found thriving in indoor materials such as fabrics, upholsteries and carpets.
• Fusarium - capable of growing and spreading even at colder temperatures. Allergenic and a toxigenic type of mold that grows in homes with water damage.
• Mucor - Allergenic form of mold that usually grows in thick patches. Often grows near air conditioning, HVAC systems and ducting due to moisture from condensation.
• Penicillin - Allergenic form of mold that is easily recognizable by its characteristic blue or green colored surface with a velvety texture. Often found in water-damaged homes and buildings.
• Stachybotrys - Also known as the nefarious “black mold.” It is a toxigenic type of mold that can also cause allergic reactions. Thrives in damp, wet areas with high humidity levels that maintain these environmental conditions for weeks.
• Trichoderma - Allergenic mold type that is generally white in color with green patches. Commonly grows in the home on wet surfaces and moist areas.
• Ulocladium - Thrives in wetness and water and is usually black in color. Can be found in kitchens, bathrooms and basements as well as around windows with high condensation levels.

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. If you find mold in your home or business call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938.  We have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.