"Black mold" is what most people call any dark mold, and many different molds look black. You can't tell which kind it is by looking, and according to the CDC you don't need to: any mold growing indoors should be removed and the moisture fixed (CDC).
Call (616) 226-9528Where it shows up
- Bathroom ceilings and corners, especially without a working exhaust fan.
- Window frames and sills, from winter condensation on cold glass.
- Behind furniture on outside walls, where air doesn't move.
- Basement walls and the back of drywall after a leak.
Why scrubbing it dry is a bad idea
Dry scrubbing or sanding sends spores into the air and through the house. Spraying bleach on drywall bleaches the surface but leaves the roots. For anything bigger than a small patch, a pro will seal off the area, remove the affected material and clean the air.
Common questions
Is black mold toxic?
Some molds can produce irritants and toxins, and mold of any color can trigger allergies and asthma. Health effects vary from person to person. The safe approach is the same for every type: remove it and fix the moisture.
Why does mold keep coming back on my bathroom ceiling?
Usually because steam has nowhere to go. A fan that's too weak, isn't used, or vents into the attic lets moisture sit on the ceiling. Fixing the fan matters as much as cleaning the mold.
There's black mold on my window sills every winter. What do I do?
That's condensation on cold glass. Wipe it dry, keep indoor humidity lower in winter, and open curtains so air can reach the glass. If it has spread into the wood or drywall, call.