"Black mold" is one of the most feared phrases in home ownership — and one of the most misunderstood. When Colorado Springs homeowners discover dark mold growth in their home, they often assume the worst. Here's what you actually need to know about black mold, its real health risks, and what professional remediation involves.
What Is Black Mold?
The term "black mold" most commonly 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). Stachybotrys is less common than other mold types because it requires prolonged moisture exposure, but it is a serious concern when it does appear.
Important: not all black-colored mold is Stachybotrys. Many common mold species (Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Penicillium) can appear black or dark green. The only way to definitively identify mold species is through laboratory testing. This is why we recommend professional mold testing before remediation — it determines the species present and informs the remediation approach.
Black Mold Health Risks: What the Science Says
Stachybotrys produces mycotoxins — toxic compounds that can cause health effects in humans. However, the scientific evidence on the severity of health effects from Stachybotrys exposure is more nuanced than popular media suggests. The CDC and EPA both state that all mold growth in homes should be remediated, regardless of species, because any mold can cause health problems in sensitive individuals.
Documented health effects from mold exposure (all species, not just Stachybotrys) include: respiratory symptoms (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath), nasal and sinus congestion, eye irritation, skin irritation, headaches, and fatigue. People with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems are most severely affected. Children and elderly individuals are also at higher risk.
Where Black Mold Grows in Colorado Springs Homes
- Behind drywall in areas that experienced water damage and were not properly dried
- Under flooring (especially carpet and hardwood) after flooding
- In crawlspaces with moisture intrusion or inadequate vapor barriers
- In attics with roof leaks or inadequate ventilation
- Around HVAC systems and ductwork in humid environments
- In basements with chronic moisture problems
- Behind bathroom tile and in shower areas with grout failures
Professional Black Mold Removal Process
- Mold inspection and testing — identify the extent of mold growth and species present
- Containment — affected areas are sealed with plastic sheeting and negative air pressure to prevent spore spread
- Air filtration — HEPA air scrubbers run continuously during remediation
- Removal of contaminated materials — mold-affected drywall, insulation, and other porous materials are removed and disposed of per IICRC S520 standards
- Surface treatment — remaining structural materials are treated with EPA-registered antimicrobial agents
- Clearance testing — post-remediation air and surface sampling confirms mold levels are within normal limits
- Reconstruction — replacement of removed materials to restore the space
Suspect black mold in your Colorado Springs home? Call Absolute Water Damage and Mitigation at 1-719-238-5064. Our IICRC AMRT-certified technicians provide professional mold inspection, testing, and remediation.
