Florida Mold Lab Testing

Black Mold Removal

Black Mold: Understanding Stachybotrys Mold

Black Mold on the Wall

What is Black Stachybotrys Mold?

Black mold usually refers to the mold species Stachybotrys chartarum or Stachybotrys atra, which thrives in constantly moist environments. This mold is commonly linked to:

  • Sick Building Syndrome
  • Damp Building-Related Illness (DBRI)
  • Poor indoor air quality

It typically grows on water-damaged materials that are rich in cellulose, like drywall and wood.

Health Risks of Black Mold

Black mold produces trichothecene mycotoxins, which can be harmful to vulnerable groups such as:

  • Children
  • Elderly
  • Individuals with weak immune systems

Symptoms of Black Mold Exposure:

  • Headaches
  • Itchy eyes
  • Throat irritation
  • Runny nose
  • Coughing, sneezing
  • Chest pain
  • Fatigue
  • Asthma and pulmonary
  • Skin rashes
  • Hemorrhaging (lung bleeding)

Where Can Black Mold Be Found?

Black mold grows in areas with high moisture or humidity, especially on organic materials. Common sources include:

  • Water leaks or stagnant water
  • Water-damaged drywall, baseboards, cabinets, and insulation
  • Glue behind wallpaper, laminate cabinets, and baseboards

High-Risk Areas:

  • Bathrooms:
    Black mold often grows behind shower tiles where grout cracks, allowing moisture to seep in.
  • Wood framing and rubber liners near shower bases are also common spots for mold growth.
Black Mold Detected

How is Black Mold Detected?

When mold is suspected but not visible, air sampling can help detect mold sources. QCI’s certified mold inspectors collect air samples, which are sent to an independent lab for analysis.

Mold Analysis Report:

  • Identification and enumeration of airborne mold spores
  • Comparison of indoor and outdoor spore counts
  • Color-coded problem areas based on spore count comparisons