Common Types of Mould Found in Homes

Mould isn’t just an ugly sight, it can also affect your health and damage your property if left to grow. We’ll teach you about the most common mould found in homes so you can catch it as soon as possible and rid of that home-invading creature. While it’s more convenient to deal with it yourself, it’s always important to know when to call in the professionals to ensure you don’t have to worry about the mould coming back to haunt you.

Where Does Mould Typically Grow in Homes?

Mould thrives in moist environments. It grows by feeding on organic materials like wood, drywall, fabric, and even dust. Some of the most common places include bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. If you want more insight into how and where mould grows, what causes it and how to prevent it from growing, check out our blog about what causes mould to grow indoors.

Small amounts of water from these rooms of your home create the perfect living space for that mould to fester. That’s why managing indoor moisture is key to preventing mould issues.

What Are The Most Common Moulds In Home?

There are hundreds of mould species, but only a few regularly show up to bother you in your home. Knowing what these types look like and where they grow helps you respond properly.

1. Cladosporium

Cladosporium is one of the most commonly found indoor moulds. It appears greenish-black or brown and has a fuzzy texture. It often grows on:

• Painted surfaces
• Wooden furniture
• Carpets
• Fabrics
• Window frames

While it seems like a fuzzy friend, it’s more close to a fuzzy nightmare. It’s one of the milder moulds in that it’s not too dangerous. But it still causes allergic reactions like sneezing, coughing, and irritated eyes, especially in individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems.

2. Penicillium

Penicillium is usually blue or green and has a powdery appearance. It commonly grows on water-damaged materials like:

• Insulation
• Ceiling tiles
• Wallpaper
• Carpet padding

This type of mould spreads through the air of your home, making it almost impossible to avoid. This mould can cause respiratory problems. Some strains produce mycotoxins, which are harmful substances that may affect your health when inhaled regularly.

Penicillium is often the cause of chronic sinus infections and other allergy-related illnesses. If you notice these symptoms improving when you’re away from home, it’s a sign that there could be a pesky Penicillium growing under your nose.

3. Aspergillus

Aspergillus comes in many forms and colours like white, yellow, green, or black. Along with the many forms it takes, it also causes a longer list of issues. Some types of Aspergillus can cause serious lung infections, especially in people with weak immune systems or chronic lung conditions.

If you see this kind of growth indoors, it’s important to treat it early, particularly if anyone in your home has breathing difficulties or allergies.

4. Alternaria

Alternaria is dark green or black and has a fuzzy texture. It’s often found in wet areas like:

• Showers
• Bathtubs
• Under sinks
• Around leaking pipes

This is one of the most common allergenic moulds. It can trigger asthma attacks and cause allergic reactions like sneezing, coughing, and skin irritation. Alternaria grows quickly in damp environments and can spread through the air once it matures. It’s often found in older homes or buildings with ongoing moisture issues.

5. Stachybotrys (Black Mould)

Stachybotrys, also known as black mould, is dark green or black and has a slimy texture. It grows on cellulose-rich materials like:

• Drywall
• Ceiling tiles
• Wooden beams
• Paper-backed wallpaper

Unlike some other moulds, black mould needs long-term moisture to grow. That means it often shows up after plumbing leaks, roof leaks, or flooding. It can cause more severe health effects, including headaches, fatigue, memory loss, and respiratory problems.

Because of its potential health risks, black mould should always be treated seriously. If you suspect it’s growing in your home, it’s best to call in professionals rather than trying to remove it yourself.

These five types make up the majority of mould found in homes. Each behaves differently and poses varying levels of risk depending on where it grows and who is exposed to it.

DIY Tips vs. When to Get Help

For small patches of mould found in homes, cleaning with soap and water may work. You can also try vinegar or baking soda, which are natural cleaners. Always wear gloves and a mask, and open windows for fresh air while cleaning.

For bigger spots

If the mould covers more than a square foot or keeps coming back, it’s best to call in professionals. We have the right tools and training to professionally remove mould in homes safely.

Our professional mould remediation services include:

• Assessing the mould
• Isolation of the mould
• Safe and professional removal
• HEPA filtering to remove any airborne particles
• Disinfecting the home
• One final check to make sure remediation was successful

We’ll also give you some tips to prevent future mould from growing in your home. This includes things like waterproofing the home interior to keep out the mould.

How to Keep Mould Away for Good

The best way to keep mould away? It’s simple, stop it from becoming a problem in the first place. Here are some ways you can mould-proof your home by yourself:

• Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% using fans or dehumidifiers
• Make sure your kitchen and bathroom vents are working properly
• Open doors and cabinets to promote fresh air circulation
• Check your home regularly for signs of dampness

While you can do these things on your own, DGI Waterproofing specializes in keeping homes in the GTA mould-free! We can look at your house and suggest ways to improve airflow and prevent future mould growth. By staying on top of moisture and airflow, you can greatly reduce the chance of mould returning.

Long-Term Protection: What Homeowners Should Consider

While regular maintenance and cleaning go a long way, homeowners should consider additional steps to protect their properties from future mould growth.

One effective strategy is to improve ventilation throughout the home. This includes installing exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, using ceiling fans to circulate air, and making sure attics and crawl spaces are well-ventilated.

Another step is to manage outdoor moisture. DGI offers waterproofing services for exterior of homes in the GTA. These precautions will fight off water to reduce the risk of it entering for your home.

For long-term protection, don’t be afraid to contact us to figure out the best plan for you and your home. We’ll assess your home for vulnerabilities and recommend solutions like sealing cracks, improving drainage, or waterproofing in basements and crawl spaces.

Conclusion

Now that you know the most common moulds that can invade your home, it’s time to take action. Protect yourself, your family, and your property from these invasive fungi.  While small areas can sometimes be cleaned at home, larger or returning moulds should be handled by professionals in your area.

Taking steps to control moisture and improve airflow is our best tip for preventing future problems. Let’s build a healthy and safe home now to make for a better future!