New York City’s subtropical, humid climate and aging buildings are some of the reasons for mold growth in homes. Many homeowners and renters face mold issues that can affect indoor air quality and deteriorate their health. Knowing the common types of mold found in NYC homes can help residents take preventive measures and get proper remediation when needed.
What is Mold, & Why Does Mold Grow in NYC Homes?
Mold is a category of fungus that is born and grows in damp, humid environments. Homeowners should be aware of residential mold issues because it can degrade property and pose considerable health risks. Mold grows in NYC because of high humidity and rainfall that creates excess moisture in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Another reason is that older buildings with outdated plumbing or poor insulation create the perfect conditions for mold growth and you need regular mold inspections to handle this. Moreover, condensation and poor ventilation in high-rise apartments can welcome mold on walls and windows.
Common Types of Mold Found in NYC Homes
Many species of mold appear in NYC residential properties. Below are the details of the most common types:
Stachybotrys Chartarum (Black Mold)
Stachybotrys chartarum, known as black mold, grows on materials with a high cellulose content, such as drywall, ceiling tiles, and wood. The dark, slimy, greenish-black patches appear on surfaces with continuous moisture like bathrooms, leaky roofs, and NYC homes with outdated plumbing or poor ventilation.
Health Impacts
Black mold produces mycotoxins that can cause severe respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and chronic health problems. The symptoms can be coughing, wheezing, and eye irritation.
Aspergillus
This mold category appears in many colors, such as green, gray, yellow, and white. It grows on organic matter and can be found in food, plants, and building materials. This is one of the most common indoor molds in NYC homes.
Health Impacts
It causes allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and, in severe cases, invasive aspergillosis that affects immunocompromised people. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, sinusitis, and even fever.
Alternaria
Alternaria appears as a dark, irregular patch with a velvety or powdery texture. It grows on wood, fabrics, and window frames and stays wet and moist for a long time.
Health Impacts
This mold type may cause nasal congestion, sneezing, and skin rashes with continuous exposure. That’s why regular mold inspection is important. Check the cost of mold inspection in NYC.
Penicillium
You can see penicillium in shades of blue or green with a velvety texture. It usually grows on decaying organic matter such as insulation, wallpaper, and carpet fibers. The homes with aging infrastructure or past water leaks are more prone to this type.
Health Impacts
Penicillium can initiate asthma attacks, allergic reactions, and other respiratory problems with continuous exposure. It is less toxic than black mold, but its spores can still cause discomfort in sensitive people.
Cladosporium
It is one of the most common molds that take place indoors and outdoors. It makes green, brown, or black hues and forms fuzzy territories. This mold can grow on wood, fabric, and even glass. In homes, it grows in areas with high humidity and poor air circulation, such as bathrooms and basements.
Health Impacts
If someone is exposed to Cladosporium, they may face allergies, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. It may worsen symptoms in someone with asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions.
How To Prevent Mold?
Regular home maintenance can help you prevent mold growth in your NYC residence. For this, schedule regular mold inspections, especially if the property is older or has a history of water damage. You can hire certified mold remediation professionals, as they perform inspections with advanced tools and sampling techniques. Annual check-ups are recommended to stop mold growth.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean your gutters regularly and inspect your roof for damage to prevent leaks.
- You can use a hygrometer to track humidity levels in your home and adjust the dehumidifier settings as required.
- Make sure to clean your air ducts professionally to remove dust and mold spores that may circulate throughout your home.
I hope now you understand the common types of mold found in NYC homes, their health impacts, and the best prevention tips!