What Is Black Mold?

We get panicked phone calls just about every single day, from people all over Western New York, asking about "black mold remediation." Sensationalized news stories and terrifying Google results have made people very, very worried about the potential for "black mold" or "toxic mold" in their home. 

That's not to say that "black mold" isn't something to worry about. Stachybotrys chartarum (the technical name for black mold) is present across the region, especially after major storms and ice damming cause moisture to leak into people's homes, often without them realizing it. This type of mold does produce allergens and irritants which can affect your health, as do many other types of mold.

Our advice? If you find mold, don't distrub it - leave it to the pros. Our certified technicians have years of experience safely remediating various types of mold, as well as installing the proper containment systems to ensure that mold spores are not spread elsewhere during the cleaning process. 



Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips. 

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of The Southtowns immediately. 

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (716) 646-6684

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
  • Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of The Southtowns is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too and are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 2,200 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale disasters.

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We are proud to serve our local communities:

  • Hamburg
  • Lackawanna
  • Springville
  • Lake Erie Beach
  • Blasdell
  • East Aurora
  • Collins
  • Angola
  • Orchard Park
  • Eden