Black spot moulds

Moulds occur in cold corners, beside windows, inside wardrobes, on shoes and all sorts of damp surfaces. They must have damp or they die….. don’t poison them with chemicals – dry them!

Grey and black mould types/genera include Pithomyces, Ulocladium, Alternaria, Memmoniella, Cladosporium, Stemphydium, Aureobasidium, and Stachybotrys.

Stachybotrys and Memnoniella are the only black mould types known to produce mycotoxins which are a potential hazard. Stachybotrys and Memnoniella infestations typically only occur on repeatedly wetted materials that contain cellulose. These include paper, cellulose insulation, cardboard, wood, etc. They are unlikely to grow where there is no cellulose.

Moulds growing on tiles and shower curtains are not likely to be infested with toxic Stachybotrys or Memnoniella as the surfaces do not normally contain cellulose.

The most common black mould is Cladosporium; it is not known to be toxic and it is around all the time. There is a risk of allergy and asthma owing to exposure to Cladosporium but this risk yet to be quantified. You are more likely to suffer from dust mite allergy due to high humidity than from Cladosporium

Fortunately the other moulds which cause black spots are not known to cause a mycotoxic hazard.

If black mould is growing on materials containing cellulose it is prudent not to disturb them. Kill them with a dilute bleach spray.

            Source: Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification

 Ten Things You Should Know About Mould

Ø  Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mould exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints. However, per the Centres for Disease Control "there is no causal link between mould and health issues in humans at this point in time". 

Ø  There is no practical way to eliminate all moulds and mould spores in the indoor environment, as mould is ubiquitous, the way to control indoor mould growth is to control moisture.

Ø  If mould is a problem in your home or work environment, per the Centres for Disease Control "it must be removed" and eliminate sources of moisture.

Ø  Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mould growth.

Ø  Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mould growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.

Ø  Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mould growth.

Ø  Clean mould off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are mouldy, may need to be replaced.

Ø  Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.

Ø  In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).

Ø  Moulds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are moulds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.