How do You Know if Mold is Affecting Your Home?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold found in the wall of a home

While some mold problems are obvious, others can be harder to detect. Mold is present in almost every environment but thrives once a source of additional humidity is introduced. A serious infestation can insidiously damage structures while avoiding detection in the recesses of your home. If you suspect you may have an outbreak, you should contact an indoor environmental specialist experienced in performing mold inspection as soon as possible.

Where to Look

Mold can look like dirt or rust. However, the location of a buildup can provide clues to rule out innocuous substances. Mold growth frequently occurs in locations where moisture can accumulate without drying for extended periods of time. Some good places to check for the presence of mold include:

• Low areas beneath sinks
  
• Showers
  
• Carpets
  
• Windows
  
  

Any surface that has been subject to flooding, leakage or steam damage might also become host to a growing mold colony that requires attention.

Other Signs
Mold gives off a distinct, musty odor. Generally, a noticeable smell only occurs in areas where significant buildup has already begun. If there is no airflow between affected spaces and your living quarters, you may not notice any unusual odor. You should be aware that even places with no noticeable mold can be infested, requiring attention before serious structural damage is done.

Testing
While home mold test kits are available to determine whether there is mold in your house, all environments have some amount of growth present. An indoor environmental specialist can determine if the most problematic types of mold are living in your home and help decide whether an infestation requires immediate removal.
Having mold contamination in Montreat, NC, can be extremely worrying. You may have heard stories that make significant mold growth sound like the worst thing that can happen to your home. By contacting an indoor environmental specialist, you can set your mind at ease and find out if further action is necessary.