What is Black Mould?
The actual name for black mould is Stachybotrys Chartarum. Most people know this as the “Toxic Black Mold.” It is hazardous and produces what we call mycotoxins which is really toxic. This type of mould grows really well around moisture which is why we usually come across it in properties that have water damage.
Do you know that really distinctive musty mouldy smell that just makes you feel sick when exposed to it for a long time? Chances are you are smelling black mould.
What are Black Mould Symptoms?
Generally, the most common health effects are respiratory response. Symptoms include chronic coughing, irritation to the eyes, rashes, fatigue and also headaches. There are also some cases that involve vomiting, nausea and bleeding in the lungs.
Other Health Effects
- Itchy ears
- Hair loss
- Bladder problems
- Suppression of the immune system.
- Sore throat
- Blocked nose
- Sinus headaches
- Wheezing
- Watery Eyes
- Flu or Cold Symptoms
Some More severe symptoms include
- Gastrointestinal or cardiac conditions
- Renal toxicities
- Neurotoxicity
- Cancer
Please check out the page “Mould Symptoms” for more information.
Does Mould Affect Everybody in the Same Way?
No, there are certain people who are at more risk to mould than others. The people who are at higher risk to mould symptoms include:
- Children and infants
- Immunocompromised patients
- Elderly
- People with respiratory problems such as asthma
What are Mould Spores
Fungi reproduce by spreading our mould spores which are released into the air. They usually lie dormant but develop into the mould when there is moisture present.
There are many places inside the home where mould spores like to grow including
- Floors
- Air conditioners
- Walls
- Carpet
- Clothes
Mould spores basically need moisture and a food source to grow. For more information, please visit our page What is mould?.
Why Do We Follow IICRC S520 Mould Standards
The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards took many years to complete by established professionals who have researched and found the best way to remove mould.
We adopt this standard as part of our quality process because we firmly believe in these proven methods. There is an element of accountability in our work, knowing that we are conforming to international mould standards. It gives you peace of mind knowing the job is done properly the first time.
Fixing the mould problem
It is also important to remediate the problem as quickly as possible. The quicker you respond to the problem, the less of a problem it will be to fix and the quicker you can get back to good health. For tips on how to remediate the mould problem within the premises please click on one of the following links:
Brisbane Mould Prevention Tips
Alternatively, please give us a call. We provide highly professional mould removal services with quick response times.
How Many Types of Different Mould are there?
Nobody knows how many different types of mould there are. There are simply too many different types of fungi to identify. There is suspected to be more than 300 000 types of mould and more types of mould are identified every year.
How do You Get Rid of Mould?
Many people complicate the mould removal process, but basically, you need to find why the mould is growing. The mould is growing because there is a moisture source. Look for the moisture source and remedy that first then physically remove the mould by either cleaning it or disposing of the source material or building contents.
Now the above process can be a very daunting task if the job is reasonably large and it may be worth employing the use of a professional to do the job in the most efficient way possible. For instance, a professional will know which items will be recoverable and which items would have to be disposed of. They will also know how to remove the mould without causing further damage due to cross-contamination. You can visit our page How to Get Rid of Mould for more information.
This is where we come in. If you are in Brisbane, be sure to call us directly for a free phone consultation on 1300 219 441
Should We do Mould Testing?
Do you feel differently at home/office than when you are out of that environment? If you are suspecting mould related illness, it is beneficial to do mould testing especially if you are not sure if mould is causing the problem or it is some other issue. See our page Mould Inspection & Assessment.