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Mold is a fungus that typically grows in warm, moist environments, which is why it's so often found in bathrooms, attics, and under sinks. It survives by digesting decaying organic materials, which makes it very helpful for removing dead plant matter around the world. However, if it starts eating away at your drywall, window frames, and flooring, it can harm your home and your health.

If you're wondering about black stains on brick at your home, the answer is that you're not looking at efflorescence. While efflorescence can be darker when certain types of salt are involved, black staining is caused by carbon staining, pollution from vehicles, and chimney soot. Black stains can also be caused by organic materials like lichen, algae, or mold.

According to the EPA, mold allergies are common and can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, headaches, and other allergic reactions. Mold allergies can also trigger asthma attacks in people with asthma. Additionally, some molds produce mycotoxins, which can lead to very serious conditions, like lung cancer.

While the resistance of lime to mold is a hotly contested topic of debate, it is true that because it allows porous materials to breathe, it avoids trapping moisture close to the structure of a building. This breathability makes it less susceptible to mold than paint because it gathers less moisture.