Problems Caused By A Wet Crawl Space

Problems Caused By A Wet Crawl Space - Mold Growth

tal moseri • November 2, 2021

Mold will grow in damp, humid, and wet conditions if it has water, food, and oxygen. Molds also require an environment that is the perfect temperature for them to survive. Most crawl spaces are the ideal breeding grounds for mold growth as these are the conditions you find in open vented crawl spaces.

There are many types of mold that grow in damp crawl spaces and we will review a few of them below.

Penicillium

This mold genus has hundreds of species, some of which are utilized in the production of the antibiotic penicillin. Penicillium is also known as the "black mold." It is a blue-green mold that many people have observed growing on food products throughout the years. Several Penicillium species produce aerosolized spores, which can be allergens and asthma triggers for those who are susceptible to them.

Aspergillus

Toxic mold species belonging to the genus Aspergillus, which includes several hundred opportunistic mold species that can be found in a wide range of climatic circumstances, can cause diseases in people such as localized infections and deadly diseases as well as allergic reactions and inhaled conidia. In this paper, we provide an overview of the most frequent diseases and allergy infections caused by Aspergillus species, as well as the health dangers connected with these diseases and infections in diverse indoor environments around the world.

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is a common mold that has the potential to be harmful to your health. Some people may develop allergies or asthma as a result of it. It has the potential to induce infections in extremely rare instances. The vast majority of Cladosporium species are not harmful to humans.

Cladosporium is a plant that may be grown both indoors and out. Mold spores can be carried by the wind, which is also how the mold spreads and multiplies.

This sort of mold is more common in locations where there is a lot of humidity, dampness, and flooding.

Alternaria

Alternaria can cause a range of health problems, the most common of which are allergies. Those with impaired immune systems are at particular danger if they are exposed to the majority of Alternaria species, which do not cause serious infections in healthy people.

Stachybotrys

Stachybotrys chartarum is a type of mold that is greenish-black in color. It can grow on cellulose-rich materials, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, and paper, as well as on other organic materials. When there is moisture present, such as through water damage, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding, growth happens. Its growth is dependent on the presence of constant wetness.

Stachybotrys chartarum is a fungus that has gained notoriety as a mycotoxin generator, with the potential to induce mycotoxicosis in both animals and humans.

Conclusion

Mold growth is a common problem in many crawl spaces, and can cause serious health problems if not treated. If you suspect mold growth or have discovered it already, be sure to contact an experienced professional for help with remediation.

About The Author

Crawlspace Lizard provides professional services related to fixing moisture and mold problem affecting crawl spaces in Georgia. Below is a list of some of our services.