Moisture can cause mold to grow.
Homeowners who experienced severe rainstorms or hurricanes may find mold growing on their home's walls and ceilings, turning them black or a different color. When homes are saturated with water and retain it for extended periods of time, mold begins to grow. Small patches of mold are not serious, but large areas of mold pose a health risk for the home's occupants. If a ceiling is black with mold growth, locating the source of moisture that caused the mold and repairing it are essential to prevent mold from returning.
Identification
Mold growth is caused by fungal spores that land on areas of moisture. The spores can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of exposure to moisture. Mold fungi destroys the materials on which it grows by digesting it over time. It can grow on a variety of materials, including wood, drywall, carpet, wallpaper, fabric, ceiling tiles and cardboard. Mold on a ceiling may turn black, gray or green, and it can grow until it covers the ceiling and may even spread to nearby walls.
Causes and Diagnosis
Ceiling mold usually is caused by leaks in the roof. Many homes damaged by a hurricane or strong seasonal storm have mold growth. High humidity also promotes mold development. Patches of black or green on a ceiling may indicate mold. It can grow in hidden areas, too, such as in attics, behind wallpaper, in air ducts, in wall cavities and in basements.
Effects
As mentioned, mold growth causes ceilings to become discolored, and the affected areas gradually become large. A musty or earthy scent is a sign of mold growth. Some molds have a very strong, foul odor. According to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, mold can cause people in an affected home to experience serious symptoms, such as wheezing, nasal congestion, dry cough, skin rashes, eye irritation, sneezing, bloody noses, asthma attacks, headaches, mood changes, memory loss and joint pain.
Control
Homeowners who have less than 25 square feet of mold growth on a ceiling can try to remove it themselves and repair the source of the the problem. Anyone who is allergic to mold or has asthma should not attempt to remove mold themselves. Mold growth that exceeds 25 square feet should be removed by a mold remediation specialist. Porous materials, including drywall and ceiling tiles, should be removed and replaced after the source of moisture is repaired.
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