When you spot discoloration on your walls, ceiling, or other surfaces in your home, your first thought might be, "Is that mold?" Unfortunately, mold growth is more common than most homeowners realize, especially in areas with moisture issues or poor ventilation. While no one wants to discover mold in their home, being able to recognize different types can help you understand the potential health risks and determine when it's time to call in professional help.
Understanding what you're looking at is the first step in addressing a mold problem effectively. However, it's important to remember that proper identification requires more than just visual inspection – professional testing is essential for accurate identification and safe removal.
Recognizing Different Types of Unwelcomed Molds in Your Home
Let us help in the first step: recognizing the different types. But let's pause for a moment. As a mold remediation company, we feel privileged to share this knowledge, but we want to be clear: visually identifying mold is not the best way to identify mold. Lab testing is the only way to 100% know what type of mold you're dealing with. Even our experts are sometimes surprised by the results, and they've cleaned hundreds of mold situations.
ServiceMaster of Kalamazoo uses independent, third-party testing companies to collect samples and analyze spore identifications and levels of contamination. Pre and Post remediation test results help to determine the scope of work to be performed and the success of the project. Lab results usually take 2-3 days to process.
Let the team at ServiceMaster of Kalamazoo help you kick the mold out of your home. If you have identified any of these molds in your household and are concerned, visit our mold services page. On our page, fill out the form or call to receive a free consultation. Feel free to ask any questions you have about the mold in your home. We are always happy to help.
5 Common Types of Mold in Your Household
Please note: We are located in Southwest Michigan. Household mold comes in different varieties depending on your geographic location.
While professional testing is always the gold standard, having a basic understanding of what different molds look like can help you communicate more effectively with remediation professionals and understand the potential urgency of your situation. Here's a visual guide to help you get started:
Mold is an unwanted fungus. Untreated mold is a common problem in the average household. Do you know what type of mold you're looking at?
Below are five of the most common types of household mold that we encounter in Southwest Michigan homes. While this visual guide can help you understand what you might be dealing with, remember that professional identification and testing are always recommended for accurate assessment.
Why Bother With a Professional Remediation Company?
You may be able to clean up certain kinds of mold in small quantities, but most people are not equipped to perform a proper mold remediation no matter what the size. Simply wiping down the evidence is not good enough. Mold removal can involve setting up containment barriers, use of commercial size HEPA air filtration devices, wearing proper personal protective equipment, HEPA vacuums, and specialized cleaning agents.
If You Decide to DIY Anyway
Make sure to consult with a remediation company first and foremost. There is usually a company that will give a free consultation, and that would help you get a good grip on your situation. We always give free consultations.
Wear a N-95 mask respirator at all times when near the affected area.
Don't Take Chances With Mold – Get Professional Help Today
Mold identification and removal isn't something to take lightly, especially when it comes to protecting your family's health and your property's value. While this guide helps you recognize common household molds, remember that proper identification requires professional testing, and safe removal requires specialized equipment and expertise. ServiceMaster of Kalamazoo offers free mold consultations and uses certified third-party testing to accurately identify mold types and contamination levels. Our certified technicians have the proper equipment and training to safely remove mold and prevent future growth. Don't risk your health or incomplete removal – contact ServiceMaster of Kalamazoo today for your free consultation and professional mold assessment.
