Common Questions
Common questions about mold
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about mold, each backed by the exact words of EPA, CDC, Texas law and the industry standards, with links to the sources.
Mold Basics & Health
- Is black mold dangerous?"Black mold" usually means Stachybotrys chartarum, but many molds are dark, and color alone doesn't identify a species. EPA says all molds can affect health, and some,...
- Can mold make you sick?It can. The effects EPA and CDC describe most often are allergic reactions (sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rash), asthma attacks in people who are allergic to mold, and...
Water Damage & Prevention
Assessment & Testing
- Should I get a mold inspection?Yes, if you suspect mold or someone in the home has symptoms you think may be related. Signs include a musty smell, visible growth, a leak or flood that wasn't dried within...
- Do I need to test for mold in my house?Not always. EPA and CDC both say that when mold is visible, sampling usually isn't needed: whatever the species, the fix is the same — clean it up and correct the moisture...
Remediation
- Does bleach kill mold?Killing mold isn't the goal; removing it is. EPA says dead mold is still allergenic and some dead molds are potentially toxic, so a cleanup has to physically remove the growth....
- Can I clean up mold myself?Sometimes. EPA's guidelines treat areas under 10 square feet as small jobs that need, at minimum, an N-95 respirator, gloves and goggles. CDC cautions that larger or...