A Look At Red Mold
When most people think of mold, they picture a disturbing green, black, or gray growth. This is why spotting red mold can be more alarming for certain people when they see it inside their homes. Today, we will be taking a look at red mold and its potential risks.
What Is Red Mold?
Contrary to popular belief, red mold isn’t its own mold species. When the phrase ‘red mold’ is used, it is actually just referring to the mold’s physical appearance and nothing more. Any mold can turn red, but it usually takes place when the mold is exposed to light or the humidity level changes. Red mold can thrive in various environments, much like its counterparts. However, it often favors damp, humid areas. Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and other areas prone to condensation or water leakage are common breeding grounds.
According to Healthline, the most common forms of mold to turn red include Aspergillus, Neurospora, and Fusarium. Aspergillus is typically found in areas with water damage or in bathrooms. Meanwhile, Neurospora grows on food, and Fusarium can be spotted on plants and in the soil surrounding them.
How Does Red Mold Affect Your Property?
The presence of red mold can significantly impact your property in several ways. Like other forms of mold, it can slowly wear down your property, lead to lower property value, and bring health risks to the people operating within your property.
Structural Damage
Red mold can cause structural damage over time. The mold feeds on organic material, which includes many construction materials like wood, drywall, and wallpaper. As the mold grows, these structures can weaken, leading to potential safety hazards.
Decreased Property Value
A property infested with mold, including red mold, can see a decrease in its market value. Prospective buyers or tenants may be deterred by the presence of mold due to the associated health risks and potential repair costs. From an aesthetic standpoint, red mold can be quite unappealing. The mold can cause discoloration and damage to surfaces, negatively affecting the overall look and feel of your space.
Risks From Red Mold/Removal
Since red mold isn’t its own mold species, that means the risks are the same as dealing with other common household molds. If you notice red mold, you will want to keep young children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems away from the area to prevent them from breathing in the particles. If someone is coughing, short of breath, sneezing, getting headaches, or showing similar symptoms, this may be a sign to check your home for mold or get that person away from a moldy environment while waiting for its cleanup to take place.
Removing red mold is also as simple as following the steps in our previous article: Best Ways to Get Rid of Mold.
How to Prevent and Remove Red Mold
Prevention is the best defense against red mold. Regularly inspect high-risk areas in your property for any signs of mold. Keep these areas dry and well-ventilated to discourage mold growth.
If you discover red mold on your property, we recommend contacting a professional mold remediation company like Mold Medics. DIY methods can be temporary fixes and may not completely eradicate the mold. Moreover, improper handling of mold can lead to its spread and potential health risks.
Contact Mold Medics
While red mold might not be as infamous as black mold, it should not be ignored, especially considering its symmetry with other types of mold. Understanding the potential impact of red mold on your property and how you can identify it can help you take the necessary measures to ensure prevention and treatment. Remember, when it comes to mold, early detection, and intervention are key.
If you want to leave mold removal in your home to the professionals, contact us here at Mold Medics! Our team is experienced in mold removal, air duct cleaning, radon services, mold testing, and much more. We utilize advanced equipment and proven techniques to effectively remove mold from your property. Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to restoring your property to its former state, ensuring a safe and healthy environment. Contact us today to get an honest assessment of your home.