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Don't Panic - Not all Black Mold is Toxic

Black mold often connotes the “Black Plague.” If you find something you think is black mold, don't panic, as not all discoloration is mold and not all black molds are toxic. In fact, humans and pets often cause some of the spots that look like black mold. If people lean their heads against a wall repeatedly, or pets rest in the same spot against a wall, the oils from hair and fur can cling to the wall. The oil will collect dust from the air, and the patterns created often look like mold.

Cosmetic Molds

People often inspect their homes for mold when someone in their household gets sick or they see a news report on mold. People tend to get nervous and think every black spot warrants a thorough inspection. Sometimes on beams and rafters there is "cosmetic mold" If it is only on one or two boards in a section and stops abruptly, the boards most likely came that way, because mold doesn’t stop growing in straight lines. If you don’t like the look of it, you can remove it with cleaning solutions. Cosmetic mold will not reappear, but if it does, it was not cosmetic mold and new mold is growing, and it is time to look for the causes.

Walls and Ceilings

The discoloration that looks like mold on walls or ceilings, but seems to grow in stripes where joists are, is probably no more than stains caused by thermal tracking. This is when dust and dirt collect on cooler parts of your walls and ceilings. Scented candles, dirty furnaces and poor ventilation contribute to this type of staining.

Toxic Mold

Recognizing the differences between harmless mold and toxic mold will not only save you a lot of time and money, but it will also alleviate much worry in your life. If you see something that appears to be mold, relax and investigate the area, because you may be panicking for no reason.