Black Mold vs. Common Household Mold: What's the Difference?
· 5 min read · Mold
Not all dark mold is 'toxic black mold.' Learn how to tell types apart and when testing is worth it.
Color isn't a diagnosis
Many mold species appear black or dark green. Only lab analysis can identify species like Stachybotrys chartarum.
Health effects
Any mold growth can trigger allergies and asthma. The CDC recommends removing mold regardless of type.
When to test
Testing is useful when you smell mold but can't see it, after remediation to verify clearance, or for real estate transactions.
Remediation basics
Professional remediation includes containment, HEPA air filtration, removal of affected materials, and fixing the moisture source.