The Definitive Guide to Mold: Causes, Health Risks & Safe Removal for Your Home - Part 1.
- Admin
- Jan 5
- 3 min read
Mold is more than just an ugly stain on walls or ceilings—it’s a serious indoor contaminant that spreads quickly and can damage your home while posing health risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold exposure can trigger allergies, asthma, and respiratory irritation, especially in children and older adults. Here in San Antonio and Austin, the warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for mold growth inside homes, attics, crawl spaces, and even your HVAC system. Whether you’ve noticed a musty smell, visible mold patches, or unexplained allergy symptoms, now is the time to understand what you’re really dealing with—and how to stop mold before it spreads.
What Is Mold and Why Does It Grow Indoors?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments. It spreads by releasing lightweight spores into the air, which can easily enter your home through doors, windows, pets, or the HVAC system. Once spores land on a moist surface rich in organic material like drywall, insulation, or wood framing—they begin to grow.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold can begin growing in as little as 24–48 hours when excess moisture is present. Common indoor causes include:
High humidity levels (above 60%)
Undetected leaks from plumbing or roofs
Condensation in poorly insulated areas
Flooding or water damage
Improper attic or crawlspace ventilation
Dirty or moisture-filled HVAC systems
In homes across South Texas, mold is especially common due to humid summers, old insulation, and HVAC condensation issues. That makes routine inspections and moisture control essential to preventing mold growth.
Common Types of Indoor Mold (and Which Ones Are Dangerous)
Not all mold species are equally harmful, but none should be ignored—especially if someone in the home suffers from allergies, asthma, or a weakened immune system. The CDC states that mold type is less important than removing it quickly and safely. Still, knowing what you’re seeing helps identify the source and severity.
Mold Type | Appearance | Common Locations | Notes |
Cladosporium | Green/brown/black | HVAC systems, carpets, ducts | Often found in return vents and ductwork |
Penicillium | Blue/green | Insulation, water-damaged areas | Spreads quickly after leaks |
Aspergillus | Yellow/green/white | Air conditioning, drywall, basements | Can trigger respiratory issues |
Alternaria | Dark green | Bathrooms, kitchens, window sills | Common in damp areas |
Stachybotrys (Black Mold) | Dark black/green slime-like | Water-damaged drywall, basements | Produces mycotoxins; requires immediate attention |
Warning: Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) does not always appear black, and mold inspection is sometimes needed to assess severity.
Health Risks Linked to Mold Exposure
Mold doesn’t just affect your home—it affects your air quality and long-term health. According to studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), mold exposure may cause:
Persistent coughing and sneezing
Respiratory infections
Allergic reactions
Worsening asthma
Chronic sinus irritation
Headaches and fatigue
Skin and eye irritation
Children, pets, seniors, and those with existing respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that long-term mold exposure can even lead to chronic respiratory illness.
Local Impact: A Hidden Danger in Texas Homes
Because of South Texas humidity, homes in San Antonio and Austin are at higher risk of indoor mold, especially if:
The home has older insulation
The HVAC system hasn’t been cleaned regularly
There are unsealed attics or crawl spaces
Air ducts have moisture or dust buildup
Roof or plumbing leaks are not repaired quickly
Attic is not well ventilated.
This is why HVAC mold contamination is more common than most homeowners realize—especially if air ducts haven’t been professionally cleaned in years.
If you have any doubts or suspicions, or haven’t cleaned and inspected your air ducts in more than a year, contact NextGen.
📍 Serving San Antonio & Austin, TX
📞 Call NextGen at 210-744-0079
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