What Is Black Mold?

Separating Fact From Myth

By now, you've heard it: black mold is dangerous. Or is it? Many sensationalized news reports have warned about "toxic mold," but these reports can be alarming and often contain misinformation. When you're dealing with mold, it's best to have the facts.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the species of mold most commonly called black mold, and it certainly does produce allergens and irritants. However, S. charatum is not unique in that regard—many other species of mold can both be black and produce allergens and irritants. More importantly, no species of mold is considered toxic. Regardless, you should treat any mold with caution—stay out of affected areas and don't touch or disturb the mold.

If you do have mold—black or otherwise—contact our team of professional mold experts! Since 2009, we have remediated mold in thousands of homes across the Unifour area—including the Lenoir, Morganton and Hickory, NC communities.

Learn more about mold with our Homeowners' Guide to Mold!

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Alexander, Caldwell, Burke and Catawba Counties immediately. 

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (828) 396-1070

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
  • Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Alexander, Caldwell, Burke and Catawba Counties is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 2,200 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale disasters.

Visit our updated page

We are proud to serve our local communities:

  • Hickory
  • Lenoir
  • Morganton
  • Newton
  • Conover
  • Sawmills
  • Long View
  • Granite Falls
  • Valdese
  • Bethlehem
  • Hudson
  • Maiden
  • Taylorsville
  • Hildebran
  • Sherrills Ford