The mold Stachybotrys chartarum, sometimes called Stachybotrys atra, is commonly known as black mold. It can infect walls, ceiling tiles, carpets and other areas of a home, causing health problems ranging from bleeding in the lungs of exposed infants to brain and psychological issues. People with asthma, emphysema or other respiratory problems may encounter lung damage due to black mold. Because of the health issues associated with Stachybotrys chartarum, it's a good idea to take precautions to ensure that colonies don't develop in the home.
Keeping Mold Out of the Home
While it is impossible to completely prevent mold spores from entering the home, some precautions can be taken to lessen the amount of mold that comes indoors. Avoid leaving windows and doors open, especially during damp weather. Using a HEPA filter or ionizing air cleaner may help remove some of the mold that enters the home, lessening the chances that it will land somewhere and start to grow.
Moisture Control
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, moisture control is key to preventing mold infestations. Any areas or items that become wet should be completely dried out within 24 to 48 hours. Potential sources of water, such as leaky plumbing or a damaged roof, should be repaired as soon as possible and the areas around them watched for potential mold growth. Homeowners should be careful to inspect areas such as the basement and crawlspaces under the house to determine whether water is getting into the home from the outside. Sometimes, a change in landscaping may be required to prevent runoff from seeping into vulnerable areas, while for others installing a plastic vapor barrier can keep water from coming up from the ground.
Reducing Humidity
To prevent the growth of Stachybotrys chartarum, indoor humidity should be kept within 30 to 60 percent, according to the EPA. This can be accomplished by using air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Ventilation also helps lower humidity, especially ventilation of bathrooms and clothing dryers. Exhaust fans should be used during cooking, dishwashing, household cleaning and bathroom use and these fans should vent outside, not into another area of the home.
Reducing Condensation
Because condensation is a potential source of moisture where black mold can grow, reducing it is another preventative measure against black mold. Insulation in walls, roofs and floors can lessen condensation buildup. The glass surfaces of windows can be treated with anti-condensation materials to prevent the buildup of moisture or storm windows can be installed. Proper caulking also helps reduce window condensation.
Cleaning Current Infestations
If a mold colony is discovered in the home, the area can be cleaned with a detergent and water or a bleach solution made of 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. If the surface or item is porous, it should be removed, discarded and replaced. A home with a lot of mold may require cleaning by a professional, including removal of affected drywall, roofing or flooring.
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