Recurring Black Stains With Carpet Mold

Identification

• Carpet mold begins to grow when mold fungi find their way indoors and land on carpet. If indoor humidity is high or carpet remains wet, mold grows and thrives. Once mold finds a source of moisture, it may begin to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Molds begin to digest the material they are growing on causing damage to the structure of the material, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Effects

• A musty or earthy smell is often the first thing homeowners notice when mold is growing on their carpet. Homeowners may also notice black stains on the carpet that appear spattered or speckled. Mold growth on indoor materials can have serious consequences for those who have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or those who are allergic to molds. People with these conditions may have difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, itching eyes, skin rash and an increase in asthma severity.

Solution

• Since carpet is a porous fabric that usually has padding underneath, the EPA recommends that homeowners remove the damaged carpet to avoid serious health effects. If you can see or smell mold, you have mold growth and the potential for health problems. Once you remove the carpet, locate the source of moisture and repair it or mold will return.

Prevention

• Prevent mold growth by repairing all leaky pipes and roof leaks. Avoid placing carpet in rooms that have constant sources of moisture such as basements, laundry rooms or bathrooms. Reduce indoor humidity by running your air conditioner as needed or placing a dehumidifier inside your home. Indoor humidity should remain between 30 and 60 percent indoors.