It could begin with a strange odor. It could begin by symptoms affecting your breathing. Or it could be as plain as day, growing on and in your walls. Mold, when left to grow, can cause devastating health issues for you and your family, as well as structural issues for your home. If you suspect the growth of mold in your home, do not hesitate to remove it or call a professional. But how do you know if your beloved home contains the unwelcome houseguest? There are ten easy signs to catch mold growth in your home.
What is Mold?
Mold is microscopic fungi that exist through plant or animal matter. They are beneficial to the environment because they help break down dead matter and recycle nutrients. This does not mean they are beneficial to your home; when they are in your home, they can cause plenty of health or structure issues as a result. Molds can grow almost anywhere, such as dirt, old food, walls, or ceilings. Mold releases spores which aid in the producing of more mold. If you find mold, do not hesitate to get it cleaned immediately.
Why is Mold Dangerous?
Mold is dangerous because of its spores. Mold is a fungi, and its spores can release into the air and turn toxic for your respiratory system. If you have mold in your home or structure, you may begin to notice certain symptoms. If you begin to have any of these symptoms that is not due to an illness, be sure to thoroughly check your house for mold:
- Asthma or heavy breathing
- Itchy, watery, or sore eyes
- Sneezing, and runny or blocked nose
- Cough, sore throat
Mold has even been recorded as responsible for death. When mold is suspected or found, never ignore it. Be sure to inspect your home or structure on a regular basis if you experience any of these symptoms.
10 Signs of Mold in Your Home
Maybe it was a smell, or maybe you can see it across the room out of the corner of your eye as you read this. Either way, if you suspect mold in your home, the following is for you. If you have any of these signs of mold, be sure to hold an investigation or call a professional to investigate and remove:
1.) Mold odor. The smell will be musty and unnatural. An example of a moldy smell would be found in an old, yellowed book.
2.) Signs of mold growth. Mold growth can occur anywhere, and if you begin to see black, brown, orange, purple, or pink spots, be sure to begin the removal process or call a professional immediately.
3.) Lingering water. If you find water stains in your walls or floors, or any kind of discoloration in your home, call a professional.
4.) Water leaks. Be sure to regularly check your plumbing to be sure it’s not leaking.
5.) Past flooding. While this could fall under the lingering water category, past flooding deserves its own category for the amount of damage it could cause. After a flood, keep an eye on the affected area.
6.) Condensation. Mold loves damp areas, so refrigerators, when not kept clean, can be a breeding ground.
7.) Increased respiratory problems. If you are experiencing asthma or heavy breathing, thoroughly inspect your home for mold.
8.) Use of humidifiers. When using a humidifier, regular it to between 55-60% RH range.
9.) Blocked gutters. The buildup of moisture in gutters can lead to moisture moving into your home, if mold hasn’t grown in the gutters already.
10.) Wet articles of clothes. After a fun day playing in the sprinklers or the beach, immediately wash your clothes to avoid mold growth.
Contact Us Today
If you suspect you have mold in your home, call us for an inspection. If you found mold, we can remove it. Mold can grow anywhere that is or was once moist, which includes the aftermath of flooding. We are here for your structural needs. For any and all of your water and mold removal needs, contact us today.