Black Mold vs. Regular Mold: How to Tell the Difference

Black mold, often called Stachybotrys chartarum, has a distinct dark color, ranging from deep green to black. It usually appears slimy or wet, not fuzzy, and tends to grow in patches on materials that stay damp for days, like drywall, wallpaper, or wood. You might notice a musty smell before you see it.

In humid climates, like the humid subtropical climate with hot summers and spring hail and thunderstorms, black mold can appear quickly after water damage. If you see dark, splotchy growth near a leak or flood area, treat it with caution. Do not touch it without protective gear, as it can irritate your skin and lungs.

• Dark green or black color
• Slimy or wet texture
• Often grows on drywall and wood
• Musty, earthy smell
• Appears in patches after prolonged dampness

Both black and regular mold can cause health issues, but black mold is more often linked to severe reactions. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, headaches, and fatigue. If you have asthma or allergies, mold exposure can make symptoms worse.

If you feel unwell after spending time in a room with mold, leave the area and see a doctor. Do not try to clean large mold patches yourself, especially black mold, because scrubbing can release spores into the air. For extensive growth, a mold professional can assess the situation safely.

If you see mold covering more than a small area, or if it is black and slimy, call a professional. Mold can spread quickly, especially in warm, damp conditions. The longer you wait, the more damage it can cause to your home and health.

A water damage inspection can identify the moisture source, and structural drying can reduce humidity. For mold on drywall, you may need drywall repair. Keep an eye on leaky pipes and roofs, as they are common causes of mold growth.

• Large areas of mold, more than a few square feet
• Black, slimy mold on drywall or wood
• Persistent musty smell
• Visible water damage nearby
• Health symptoms that worsen indoors