There is a big difference between black mold and mold that is black. The first one can be deadly to small babies, and the second one is merely an annoying mess to clean up. The problem is, how can you tell the difference?

There are many different species of mold, which, along with mushrooms and yeast, is actually a fungus. To some extent, any mold growth in your home is a problem because mold will lead to increased allergy problems and other side effects, as well as causing structural damage.

Stachybotrys is the mold most commonly referred to as black mold. It is a problem in homes because it grows well on wood and paper, both of which are in abundance in homes. You may not realize it, but the unpainted interior walls of your home are probably drywall, which is coated with paper and is a prime habitat for stachybotrys.

Stachybotrys gets into homes that have water intrusion in some form. Spores can be brought in by groundwater coming in through flooding, or spores can be present in building materials in the home and get activated by a plumbing leak, for example.

Black mold is commonly found on the paper backing of drywall or gypsum board, but can also grow on the paper backing of insulation, wallpaper, paper or cellulose ceiling tiles, wood, and even carpets containing natural fibers.