Is It Black Mold? Here’s How We Know
Is It Black Mold? Here’s How We Know
If you're reading this, you probably spotted something dark and suspicious on your basement wall, behind a bathroom cabinet, or maybe under a kitchen sink. And you’re wondering, is this black mold?
Let’s break it down in plain terms, so you know what you’re dealing with—and what to do about it.
What Is Black Mold?
The term “black mold” usually refers to Stachybotrys chartarum, a toxic mold that can grow in damp, cellulose-rich areas like drywall, wood, or insulation. It thrives where there’s been water damage—especially if the area stayed wet for more than 24-48 hours.
But here’s the catch: not all black-looking mold is “black mold.” There are other types of mold (like Cladosporium or Alternaria) that are also dark in color but not as toxic.
How We Identify Black Mold
At Total Home Water Restoration, we don’t guess. We inspect and test to confirm what kind of mold it is and how bad the problem is. Here’s what we look for:
Color and Texture: True black mold is often dark greenish-black and slimy. If it’s dry and powdery, it’s probably something else.
Moisture Source: Mold needs moisture. We check for leaks, past flooding, or high humidity.
Smell: A musty odor is a big red flag.
Location: Common spots include basements, bathrooms, behind walls, and HVAC systems.
Air and Surface Testing: If needed, we can run professional mold sampling to confirm the species.
According to the ANSI/IICRC S520 standard, a visual inspection is often enough to make a remediation plan, but testing is sometimes necessary—especially if health concerns are involved or the mold is hidden.
Is Black Mold Dangerous?
Yes, it can be. Black mold releases mycotoxins that can trigger:
Respiratory problems
Headaches
Fatigue
Skin or eye irritation
Young kids, older adults, and anyone with asthma or a compromised immune system are especially at risk. If you’re feeling sick and you’ve seen signs of mold, don’t ignore it.
What You Should Do
Here’s what we recommend:
Don’t touch it. Disturbing mold can send spores airborne.
Don’t bleach it. Bleach doesn’t penetrate porous surfaces like drywall.
Call a professional. A licensed mold remediation contractor (like us) can safely handle the problem.
In Ohio, we follow EPA and IICRC S520 mold remediation standards, which include containment, HEPA filtration, safe removal, and verification that the job is done right.
We’ve Seen This Before
One Grove City homeowner called us after finding black spots behind a bathroom wall they opened up during a remodel. The pipe had been leaking slowly for months. The drywall was soft and dark. We confirmed it was Stachybotrys, safely removed the affected areas, dried out the framing, and sealed the space before new materials went in.
They didn’t just get a mold cleanup—they got peace of mind.
Serving Grove City and Surrounding Areas
If you’re in Grove City, Columbus, or nearby (like Dublin, Hilliard, or Westerville), give us a call. We’ll inspect your home, identify the problem, and walk you through the next steps.
Total Home Water Restoration
📍 4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
📞 380-246-1837
“From disaster to done right. We fix it like it’s our own home.” – Tyler Zimmerman
FAQ
Q: Can I test for black mold myself?
A: You can buy a home test kit, but they’re not always reliable. If health or safety is a concern, it’s best to hire a professional.
Q: Is all black mold toxic?
A: No, not all black-looking mold is toxic. That’s why proper identification matters.
Q: Do I need to leave my house during mold removal?
A: Not always. It depends on the size of the area and whether sensitive individuals are present.
