Few words strike fear into homeowners like "black mold." But what is black mold, how dangerous is it really, and what should you do if you find it in your Colorado Springs home? Here's what you actually need to know.
What Is Black Mold?
The term "black mold" typically refers to Stachybotrys chartarum, a greenish-black mold that grows on materials with high cellulose content — drywall, wood, paper, and ceiling tiles — that have been wet for an extended period (typically 7–10 days or more). It's important to note that not all black-colored mold is Stachybotrys, and not all dangerous mold is black. Many mold species can cause health problems regardless of color.
Health Risks of Black Mold
Stachybotrys produces mycotoxins — toxic compounds that can cause serious health effects with prolonged exposure. Symptoms of black mold exposure include chronic coughing and sneezing, eye and throat irritation, skin rashes, headaches, fatigue, and in severe cases, neurological symptoms. People with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Children and the elderly are also at higher risk.
Where Black Mold Grows in Colorado Springs Homes
- Behind drywall in areas with slow leaks or past water damage
- Under flooring in areas with moisture intrusion
- In crawlspaces with inadequate vapor barriers
- In basements with chronic moisture or flooding history
- In attics with roof leaks or inadequate ventilation
- Around HVAC systems and ductwork with condensation issues
- In bathrooms with poor ventilation
Why Colorado Springs Homes Are Vulnerable
Colorado's dry climate creates a false sense of security about mold. While outdoor mold counts are lower than in humid climates, indoor mold can thrive anywhere there is moisture — and Colorado Springs' freeze-thaw cycles, snowmelt, and occasional heavy rain create plenty of moisture opportunities. Homes with past water damage that wasn't properly dried are particularly vulnerable.
What to Do If You Find Black Mold
Do not disturb the mold. Disturbing mold releases spores into the air, spreading contamination throughout your home. Do not try to clean it with bleach — bleach kills surface mold but doesn't penetrate porous materials where mold roots (hyphae) grow. Call an IICRC-certified mold remediation company for a professional assessment.
Professional mold remediation involves containment of the affected area to prevent spore spread, HEPA air scrubbing to capture airborne spores, removal of all contaminated porous materials, antimicrobial treatment of all affected surfaces, and post-remediation air quality testing to verify successful remediation.
Found mold in your Colorado Springs home? Call Absolute Water Damage and Mitigation for a free mold assessment: 1-719-238-5064. IICRC AMRT-certified technicians.
