There are many different kinds of mold damage, and scenarios in which mold is present, that require specific and unique solutions. Understanding the facts of mold and the kinds of mold growth in Kissimmee is very important as the new, and the public can make mold seem very alarming and intimidating.

While it is true that mold growth can occur in as little as 48 hours, when water intrudes in a property and that mold is indeed everywhere, there are many types of mold and differentiation between mold growth.  

Types Of Mold And How They Grow

Molds are organisms that grow indoors as well as outdoors. Mold travels and colonizes via tiny spores that are invisible to the naked eye. According to the CDC, these spores attach themselves to hair, clothing, HVAC units and more, floating through outdoor and indoor air. Outside, they’re an important part of the ecosystem; indoors, they can be problematic.

There are over 100,000 different types of mold and not all are a threat. Some mold types are those that grow on food, while other molds have the potential to affect a home’s belongings and structure. Each mold has its attributes, growth patterns and effects on property or people.

A few of the most common indoor molds are:

• Acremononium. This mold is pink, grey, orange, or white in color. Acremonoium grows in household systems like humidifiers, AC drain pans or cooling coils.

• Aspergillus is green, white, or gray with dark spots and a powdery look. This type of mold doesn’t need much ventilation. It thrives in fabrics, walls, attics, and basements, as well as on dry food items. Mold can be black, white, spotted, or just about any color, and may appear powdery, cottony, or velvety.
• Cladosporium. This mold is brown, green, or black.  Cladosporium grows in both warm and cool locations. Its most often found on wood, carpets, or fabrics, and in heating and cooling ducts.
• Chaetomium. This cotton-like mold changes colors from white to grey or brown to black over time. This mold is commonly found where prominent water damage has occurred. Homes or buildings with water damaged ceilings or waters typically tend to see Chaetomium.
• Penicillium. This fuzzy mold is blue, green, or yellow. It’s often found under carpets, in basements, and in insulation, especially when there’s been water damage.

Understanding every single type of mold and being able to identify it is not possible without a professional mold test. Many homeowners often see mold black in color and begin to fear they are being affected by “black mold” or Stachybotrys, when in fact there are other molds that can be black in color. Mildew is also often mistaken for mold as well.

Regardless of the type of mold found or suspected it is always important to seek a professional mold inspector’s advice. The type of mold found in a home will also require an understanding of how to properly remediate the mold and the damage found.