When It Comes to Black Mold, Never Put It on Hold

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

There are over four thousand four-letter words in the English language, yet none perhaps send a shudder down the spine of a building owner like the word “mold” does. Compounding it with the word “black” can raise anxiety in the most levelheaded of people. While all types of mold should be addressed with urgency, black mold needs to be handled as soon as possible to protect a building's structure.

Where Can It Strike?

This mold enjoys particularly damp conditions, making it more prevalent in areas of the property that are exposed to moisture. Breakrooms, bathrooms, ceilings, stairwells and even common areas are all susceptible because mold can grow anywhere and on anything. The following surfaces are especially prone to mold damage:

• Drywall
  
• Wallpaper
  
• Insulation
  
• Carpet
  
• Wood
  
• Concrete
  
• Stone
  
  

Essentially, any area in a building that has high humidity, water leakage, warmth and little to no light can be a breeding ground for mold.

How Should It Be Handled?
Containment of black mold requires both preventative and reactive measures, which are necessary to limit the structural harm done to a commercial space. For example, staying on top of leaks and carrying out periodic inspection of high-risk areas is a must. Furthermore, maintaining low humidity by air conditioning and ventilating creates an environment inconducive to mold growth.
Once detected, performing mold cleanup (such as drying of wet materials and comprehensive cleaning and disinfection) at the earliest opportunity is critical in restricting the spread. The inconvenient truth is that mold is rarely eliminated, making professional mold remediation vital for property protection.
Black mold doesn’t have to be scary. By being wary of conditions that incubate mold and diligent in periodic inspections, a landlord or tenant in Scottsdale, AZ, can proactively limit its growth. If any trace of mold is found, make sure to nip it in the bud with the help of mold experts.