Not all mold is the same. As such, different species spread at different speeds and need specific remediation strategies. Below, this mold removal contractor in Northbrook, Illinois is going to explain the mold types most commonly found in commercial buildings.

What is the main reason to identify the exact mold type?

Identifying the species can tell you where the moisture problem started in the building. It also shows how far the mold has spread and what type of cleanup is required. Some molds indicate high humidity while others suggest water intrusion. Some spread easily through air systems while others stay close to damp building materials.

An experienced mold removal contractor in Northbrook, Illinois can give you a clear picture of the situation. This will make it easier to decide if the problem is limited to a single room or if spores have spread into wall cavities, ceiling spaces, HVAC ducts, crawl spaces or under flooring.

What types of mold are most common in Chicago commercial buildings?

Aspergillus

Aspergillus is one of the mold types most frequently found in commercial buildings. In many buildings, it starts inside HVAC systems where moisture collects. Once it establishes itself, it can enter the building through air distribution.

A mold removal contractor will know to look for Aspergillus above ceiling tiles, inside supply vents, around coil housings, inside fan compartments and on insulation lining the ducts. Without proper testing, Aspergillus can continue spreading even after visible growth is removed.

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is commonly found on damp drywall, carpet backing, window frames where condensation forms, baseboards near leaks and the surface of insulation. It can also thrive in cooler areas, which is why it can be found in mechanical rooms, around air handlers, near refrigeration lines and in cool basement service areas.

Penicillium

Penicillium grows rapidly on water-damaged materials, especially ceiling tiles and insulation affected by leaks. It can produce the strong musty odor people tend to associate with mold. Penicillium becomes very lightweight once it dries out and then it can spread through air movement.

Because of this, an experienced mold removal contractor in Northbrook, Illinois will usually perform air sampling whenever Penicillium is suspected. This is to confirm that the spores have not traveled down hallways or into shared ventilation systems.

Alternaria

Alternaria can appear in areas with long-term moisture problems, like basements, behind wall panels, near older plumbing lines, along foundation cracks and on damp subflooring. When Alternaria is present, it generally signals a moisture source that has been active for a while.

Why should mold be tested and removed professionally?

Cleaning visible mold without proper testing is one of the most common mistakes commercial property owners make. Spores can remain in the air or linger inside building materials — even if the surface appears clean. Testing can confirm if the mold problem is isolated to one area or if it has spread more widely.

A professional mold removal contractor will set up containment barriers, use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers, remove/treat affected materials and perform thorough cleaning to prevent spores from spreading to unaffected areas. They also conduct clearance testing afterward to confirm the area is safe before building occupants return.

Looking for a mold removal contractor in Northbrook, Illinois?

Are you searching for a professional mold removal contractor in Northbrook, Illinois that can remediate mold in your commercial property? If so, Axis Response Group is here to help. Our trained team uses industry-standard remediation methods to safely remove mold growth. Contact us today to schedule your free on-site assessment with our team.