What is mould and why does it grow in homes?
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Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp, warm environments. It reproduces by releasing microscopic spores into the air. In Australian homes, mould thrives when relative humidity exceeds 60% — common in bathrooms, laundries, wardrobes, and poorly ventilated rooms. It feeds on organic materials like plasterboard, timber, carpet, and even dust.
Is mould dangerous to my health?
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Yes — prolonged exposure to mould can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, skin irritation, and eye irritation. People with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Some species like Stachybotrys (black mould) produce mycotoxins that can cause more serious health effects including chronic fatigue and neurological symptoms.
What does black mould look like?
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Black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum) typically appears as dark green to black patches with a slimy or wet texture. However, many mould species appear dark — not all black-looking mould is Stachybotrys. Professional testing is the only way to confirm the species and assess the health risk.
Can I just see mould, or can it be hidden?
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Visible mould is often just the tip of the iceberg. Mould commonly grows inside wall cavities, behind wallpaper, under carpet, inside HVAC systems, and in roof spaces. If you can smell a musty odour but can't see mould, there's likely hidden contamination. Professional air testing can detect airborne spore levels even when mould isn't visible.
What causes mould to come back after cleaning?
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Mould returns when the underlying moisture source isn't addressed. Common culprits include poor ventilation, leaking pipes, rising damp, condensation on cold surfaces, and inadequate waterproofing. Cleaning only removes surface mould — without fixing the moisture problem, regrowth is inevitable.