What To Do About Smelly Mold

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Certain types of mold colonies can release a metabolic by-product called mycotoxins

You may know about mold, but you might not have heard the word mycotoxin before. As a homeowner in Vail, CO, this is probably a phenomenon you should become familiar with.

Why Does Mold Smell?

Mold is a living thing, so it does more than just look gross. Under the right conditions of moisture and temperature, certain types of mold colonies can release a metabolic by-product called mycotoxins, or toxigenic particles, that can be harmful to both humans and animals. You are usually alerted to their presence by a musty odor. Some common types of mycotoxin are:

• Aflatoxin, usually produced by aspergillus fungi and often found on products from the tropics
• Ochratoxin, usually produced by aspergillus or penicillum fungi and often contaminates beer, wine and fruit
• Citrinin, usually produced by penicillum and used to make cheese
• Fusarium, usually produced by fusarium fungi and often effects wheats and grains
  

How To Remove the Smell

Removing the smell requires removing the mycotoxin itself, which is in the air. HEPA air filtration devices are good at getting the job done. In order to prevent more being produced, you should also remove the mold itself. If the mold colony is less than 10 square feet, you are okay to clean it yourself. If it is larger, you should seek out professional help.

If the Smell Comes Back

If you have mold coming back in the same place over and over again, you may have a water issue. Mold needs moisture to thrive. Depending on where you find the mold, this could be a plumbing issue. Have your pipes checked for leaks. If the mold is found in the basement or attic, it may be a matter of proper sealing and insulation. Professional mold remediation specialists can identify moisture sources as well as remove your mold for you.
Now that you know what a mycotoxin is, you know what you can do about it. Mold can be a fascinating subject of biology, but for a homeowner, it is also necessary knowledge.