If you own a home, you most likely want to keep it in great condition. And, make sure it’s a safe and comfortable place to live for not only yourself but your family too. One thing that can make your home unsafe to live in is mold. Additionally, because mold can easily grow in home environments, it’s important to be aware of mold and how to identify it. This way, you can make the right decision as far as remediation and removal.
Identifying the Signs of Mold in Your Home
There are literally hundreds of thousands of types of mold that can grow in or outside of your home. Mold can grow almost anywhere and the various types offer a number of colors like white, pink, blue, and black. However, the most common type of mold found in homes is black mold, which is also the most dangerous. Regardless of the type of mold growing in your home, it’s best to determine its presence so it doesn’t lead to further problems. And, so you can get the help you need to remediate the issue.
Water Leaking and Flooding can Lead to Mold Growth
One of the surest signs of mold is water leaks or water damage due to flooding. Mold requires water to grow and thrive. So, whenever there are water leaks or a home has experienced flooding, there is a higher chance of mold growth. If there are water leaks in your home, you may not see mold, but it could still be there. Commonly, when leaks occur, mold will end up growing behind drywall, under flooring, or by leaking pipes. When it comes to water damage, mold can either grow directly where water sat or in the same places it grows due to water leaking. In any case, if you have noticed water leaks or have experienced water damage, it’s best to have a professional mold test.
Condensation May be a Sign of Mold Growth
Because mold needs water to grow, it loves humid atmospheres. If you find condensation on your walls, windows, or HVAC system, you may have a humid atmosphere in your home. Unfortunately, this will inevitably stimulate the growth of mold in your home. For many struggling with condensation in the home, a dehumidifier can work to reduce the amount of water in the air. This can work to prevent mold growth and can actually be good for health reasons too.
Illness is One of the Signs of Mold Growth
Have you or some of your family members gotten sick lately? Black mold reproduces by sending millions of tiny particles into the air to spread throughout the environment. But, when these spores are breathed in, they can lead to a number of damaging health effects. These effects may include coughing, wheezing, runny nose, and sneezing. While these symptoms could also be due to a cold or flu, if they persist for a long period of time, it could be a sign that it’s due to mold.
A Strange Smell is a Sign of Mold
Mold gives off a stale, pungent smell that resembles wet socks, rotting wood, and/or dug up earth. If you smell something like this when you walk into your home, it could be due to the presence of mold. However, in many cases, even though mold is growing in a home, homeowners may not be able to smell it. So, if you aren’t experiencing this sign of mold growth, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your home is free of mold.
Getting a Test for Mold Done in Your Home
While these signs of mold can help to identify the presence of mold, there is no sure way to tell if there is mold unless you have a professional test done. So, even if you don’t notice these signs, it doesn’t mean that your home is necessarily free of this issue. A professional mold test can allow you to understand where mold is growing and your options for removal.
If you’re looking for a mold testing company in South Florida you can trust, consider A Plus Mold Remediation Inc. We are licensed, bonded, and ensured to allow our customers peace of mind in knowing they chose a mold remediation company that is all about effectively and safely removing mold. To get your quote for a home mold test contact us today.