Have you ever been confused about what color is mold? Different shades of mold appear in various parts of our home, and they are beyond disgusting. Yellow is cute, but not when it comes to fungus.
All types of mold are dangerous, but the extent varies. Read through to find out what type poses the most threat and what kind of mold is living in your house.
Why Does Mold Vary In Color?
Several things influence the color of a mold. Let us have a glimpse of some of these factors.
Region influences the mold color
Scientists have long been aware that mold color varies depending on the region. Green mold and blue are more common in the Northwest Pacific area. On the other hand, the Amazon has more orange mold.
Are you wondering why? The variation is theoretically caused by the differences in food sources in the area. The mold takes its pigment from its nutrient source.
It is the mold’s defense mechanism
Color pigments are used as a barrier or weapon to protect mold from the enzymes produced by amoebas. The color creates a toxic environment for other types of fungi. Additionally, the color also protects the mold from ultraviolet light, free radicals, and extreme temperatures.
Other reasons for mold color variation
Aside from the above mentioned reasons, mold colors also differ depending on their age and the condition of their growth environment. The color is also a function of the different chemicals produced.
What Are Some Of The Common Colors Of Mold?
Mold may come in a rainbow of colors. Typically, mold presents itself in green, black, blue, or white. However, combinations of these and other colors can also be seen in different areas.
Black mold
This type can be the most dangerous type of mold. It is commonly found in areas of excessive moisture, such as wallboards. Black mold should be dealt with by a professional immediately.
Green mold
It is the most common type of mold. It grows basically anywhere in your home where water problems may occur, such as the bathroom, basement, and kitchen. Green mold is also usually found in starch-heavy foods such as bread.
Blue mold
We can find blue mold in cheese. Some of its types are used in producing antibiotics, such as penicillin. This type of mold usually grows in food but can also be seen on household materials such as wallpaper and carpeting, which have been damaged by water.
Brown mold
This mold type is generally used to refer to mold that grows on wood. You can also find it growing in areas like window seals and in between tiles. Walls are also a typical habitat of brown mold, especially in dark or damp spaces like basements or attics.
White mold
Very new molds which are spore-free usually appear as white. Aside from its color, it is typically hard to spot since it is powdery and blends in with the surface they grow on.
White mold usually grows in any material but more in damp and dark areas. It also often grows in leather items such as shoes and bags.
Food that has started to spoil is also an ideal environment for white mold to grow. You may also want to remove mold in the fridge to avoid this scenario.
What colors of mold are usually found on walls
Walls are one of the most typical areas for mold growth. Not only is mold an eyesore. It also poses different types of danger to our health and must be gotten rid of immediately.
Bathroom walls usually have green mold as they are exposed to moisture most of the type. Black mold is usually found in wallboards, specifically if excessive moisture is present. If your walls are made of wood, you will likely spot brown mold in them.
Given that white molds can grow virtually anywhere, your house walls are prone to its growth. It is very common, especially in your basement walls located in dark and damp spaces.
How is mold different from mildew?
Mildew is basically a type of mold. It is the term used to call mold growth which grows in a flat habit. It appears to be fluffy or powdery, while white mold looks slimy or fuzzy.
Although mildew can cause harm to our health, such as headaches, sore throat, coughing, and other respiratory problems, the effects of mold are worse. Common health effects include allergic reactions, respiratory problems, heart problems, joint inflammations, dizziness, extreme fatigue, and even depression. Check out this guide and learn how to stop mildew on water damaged wood.
Conclusion
Mold is one of the common problems that occur in our homes. It is not just an eyesore but also a threat to our health. It is why it is essential that you know its types and where they usually grow.
Now that you know what color is mold, it will be easier for you to identify areas you have to clean and protect against fungal growth. Be more aware and keen of the areas of your home, and make sure to act immediately when you spot any mold growth. Whether black, green, white, or blue — mold is mold, and mold is harmful.