Black mold is a type of fungus that forms its conidia in tiny sludge particles called conidium. It can generally be detected in damp or moist soil, but usually the black mold is most commonly detected in cellulose-rich construction materials from water or damp-damaged buildings. It typically grows on such items as drywall, concrete, gypsum board, insulation, flooring, moldings, basement walls and wiring. Mold allergies are common with people who have existing lung disorders or breathing problems. It tends to accumulate on these materials around sinks, basements and showers, frequently in areas with heating and cooling systems that tend to build up moisture.
Poor ventilation can be a breeding ground for black mould. Moisture is critical for its growth, and buildings can become humid enough to support the growth of black mould spores. Even poorly ventilated rooms can be a haven for these spores, especially in the basements.
A place where you might find black mould is around the foundation. If there is poor ventilation, it is easy for damp conditions to remain so. If these conditions persist, mold will quickly germinate and then set up residence. It’s not just the drywall underneath your home that can cause problems – roofs, floors, cabinets and other solid surfaces can become a habitat for black mould.
Another cause for the proliferation of black mould is poor ventilation. Even a bathroom can benefit from a fresh air circulation system. This allows excess moisture to escape away from the house, so it is removed from the building before it can grow. Even buildings with poor ventilation systems can benefit from some good venting – but it is important that fresh air is able to move through the structure.
One of the best ways to get rid of black mould is to paint the walls. Paint will penetrate the material, and the spores can then be removed. There are different types of paint that can be used for this job, including acrylic and latex. Some molds may have a nasty smell, but this will not be visible to humans. Once paint has been forced on the surface, it needs to be removed with a specialised brush.
Cold surfaces such as cold ceilings and doors can also benefit from a coat of paint. The paint helps seal and protect the surface, reducing the amount of condensation that is produced by the room. Condensation is the number one cause of structural damage to buildings – in fact, it is responsible for causing many building related fires. It can form at any time, especially if the temperature outside is cold, and is usually caused by poor ventilation. Paint can easily seal off cold surfaces, stopping the moisture from coming into the structure and forming black mould.
Roofs can also be sprayed with a special solution to remove black mould. Mold spores like warm, moist places, and so if roofs are left damp it provides the ideal growing environment for black mould to grow. Paint will prevent it growing on the roof, making it easier to clean, and will stop it coming down on people or animals.
If you do not have a problem with black mould coming down on people, you may not need to worry about black mold removal. However, there are certain rooms in the house that act as a moisture source. This could include the kitchen and bathrooms, where people frequently take showers or wash, and even the living room or study. Paints can help prevent the moisture from coming into these areas, but will not prevent it from being present in some cases. If the condition persists after painting, water based mould killing solution may need to be applied. A good specialist can advise you on the best solution for your circumstances.