Types of Mold & Mildew

Black Mold

• Black mold (Stachybotrys Chartarum) grows in areas that have had water damage, such as a leaky pipe or flooding of a home or other type of constructed building. This type of mold is a health hazard, causing many respiratory problems in humans as well as animals. It causes cold-like symptoms, headaches, muscle aches, and even death to those with a weakened immune system or prolonged exposure.

Aspergillus Mold

• Over 160 different species of aspergillus mold exists, and it is most commonly found in homes. It can thrive in almost any conditions and grows in various colors. This type of mold is second in causing infections in people that require hospitialization.

Fusarium Spp

• Fusarium spp is a soil fungus that inhabits a wide variety of plants. It is also found in humidifiers in the home as well as water-damaged materials such a carpet, drywall and basements. Fusarium can cause skin, nail, and eye infections if the spores are inhaled. It also can cause a more severe reaction called hemorrhagic syndrome, which causes internal bleeding, nausea, diarrhea, dermatitis and vomiting.

Paecilomyces Mold

• Paecilomyces is a rapidly growing mold resembling penicillin. It is usually white, but the color can change with its age to a suede or much brighter color. It has a velvety or powdery texture and lays flat against the material it grows on. It is found in water-damaged materials of buildings, paper products, drywall, carpets and PVC pipes.

Powdery Mildew

• Powdery mildew is a disease that easily spreads on plants. Patches of gray or white power that resembles talcum powder identify it. It is usually found in climates that are warm and dry.

Downy Mildew

• Downy mildew is found on grapevine leaves and is identified by spores of yellow and light green spots on the leaves. They are also called oil spots due to the greasy appearance they show on the leaves.