Mold and mold spores come in many textures and colors, but they all have a few things in common. Mold tends to grow in moist areas, they feed on organic matter, and all can pose a threat to your health. Green mold, in this sense, is no different. So, have you recently wondered what it is and if it’s dangerous? Here’s what you should know about green mold that grows in homes.
What is green mold?
Green mold is an umbrella term that refers to different species of fungi that grow in shades of green. Green mold spores and colonies appears soft and fuzzy or powdery and can have different hues of green. You may have seen green mold on fruits, bread, and many other foods. While this mold does like food, green mold can also grow in wet areas of a home.
Although many species of mold can grow green, the most common are Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium.
- Cladosporium is an olive green mold variety and thrives on plants in particular. While less commonly, this mold can also grow on household surfaces like walls, cabinets, and carpets.
- Aspergillus is the mold that typically grows on spoiled food like bread. It can also grow on nutrient-poor but moisture-rich environments like the basement.
- Penicillium is famous for its antibacterial properties and is usually bluish-green. However, it can also emit mycotoxins that are toxic to both people and pets. Penicillium prefers colder environments like soil, but some also form on wet items in the home.
However, these molds can also grow in other colors as well, such as blue or black. Meaning, testing for mold is the only way to find out which type of mold is present in your home or building. And of course, you should always test the mold in your home to determine whether it’s harmful.
Is green mold dangerous?
Contrary to popular belief, black mold is not the only harmful mold for people and pets. While black mold may seem more dangerous, its green counterpart is just as likely to cause health issues.
All molds, green, black, or other colors, can cause a variety of health problems, especially in susceptible people. Continuous exposure to mold can affect the respiratory system and trigger asthma attacks and allergens. So yes, if you see green mold, you should remove it as soon as possible.
This kind of fungus can grow anywhere in your home where a water problem has occurred. Check out how to prevent mold in the crawl space, basement, bathroom, laundry room, attic, as well as in houseplant soil, the HVAC system, closets, carpets, and washing machines.
For expert mold removal, contact the PuroClean remediation pros
If removing this kind of fungus seems daunting to you, it’s because it is. Mold is extremely dangerous and cannot only affect your health, but your wellbeing and comfort. Besides being a huge cosmetic issue and a health concern, it is also one of the most challenging property damage situations to fully eradicate. DIY methods, especially without proper containment, can add risk of mold spores travelling throughout your home or building. If this happens, the problem will grow, often in hard to reach areas, resulting in a more massive mold infestation, which can bring structural concerns as well.
The best way to fully get rid of mold is to contact professional technicians like those at PuroClean. Our IICRC certified restoration professionals have the experience, techniques, and equipment necessary to completely remediate the mold, dry your property, and return it to normal.
Day or night, rain or shine, we will be there as soon as you call.
