Atlanta, GA—August 1, 2010—There’s plenty of hype about the substance known as “toxic black
mold”—hype that’s often designed to profit from homeowners’ fears.
The phrase “toxic black mold” is commonly used to describe the genus Stachybotrys, which is a
relatively common type of mold associated with moist environments. “In general, I find
Stachybotrys in air samples for buildings where severe water damage has occurred,” says
Michael Beuerlein, CIEC, CMRS, owner and president of Eagle Indoor Air in Atlanta. “It isn’t rare,
but it isn’t that common, either. It simply requires a lot of moisture and a readily available food
source, typically something cellulose-based—drywall, paper, wood, cardboard.”
Stachybotrys does produce a toxin and has been linked anecdotally to a variety of health effects,
and as such it should be taken seriously. Still, you shouldn’t be alarmed just because you find
black mold growing in your house. There are many types of mold that are dark or black in color
that aren’t Stachybotrys, and even if you do have Stachybotrys, that doesn’t necessarily mean
you’re going to get sick.
“Reaction to different types of mold is highly individual,” Beuerlein says. “Many molds actually
produce toxins, but they don’t get the press that Stachybotrys does.”
If you have mold growth in your home that you’re concerned about, call a mold professional
certified by the Indoor Air Quality Association. Only a professional can assess whether
Stachybotrys is present, and then only with sampling. Beware of contractors who claim to be
able to tell what type of mold you have just by looking at it—and then recommend expensive
cleanup services. Mold remediation procedures should always be based on individual
circumstances—how much mold there is, where it’s growing, whether it’s causing building
damage, how much is becoming airborne—not just on the type of mold present.
If you’re having health symptoms that you fear may be related to mold, consult your family
physician for advice.