If you read any literature on the dangers of toxic mold and the importance of mold removal, most of what you see concerns “black mold.”

Toxic black mold, or statchybotrys, is the most commonly discussed and famously threatening form of mold. It’s the dark, greenish-black kind of mold that usually pops up under conditions of extreme moisture, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. We know what it does to us, causing respiratory infections and sometimes bleeding in the lungs, among other things. It’s relatively easy to see and people are generally diligent about having mold inspections done when they see it. It simply looks sinister an unhealthy, so we pay it proper attention.

But there are other forms of mold that can be dangerous, especially because they’re less detectable and often mistaken for something else. Sometimes, mold manifests itself as brownish spots – on a ceiling, for example. Far too often, contractors tell home owners that the brown spots are simply “water damage” and don’t need to be remedied. In many cases, that’s simply not true.

Brown mold in places like ceilings or drywall still releases allergens that can cause allergic reactions. It’s thus still very important to treat it seriously.

So if doesn’t have that scary, slimy, toxic waste-y look to it, how do we know it’s mold? One trick is to smell it. Usually, it smells musty or rusty. If the brown spots in your home have that kind of smell, don’t write it off as “water damage.” Hire a mold testing company to make sure you don’t have a mold problem – especially before it spreads.

MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free buildings, condominiums, homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CTV and Global TV and recommended by contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a quote at (416) 575-6111.