Last week I went over some easy tips on how to prevent mold from making a home in your house, but how do you know if mold growth is already present?
Mold can be sneaky and has the ability to be well on its way to a large and healthy patch of growth before you know it’s there if you don’t know what to look for or where to find it.
Today I’ll go over some of the first signs of mold growth in your home.
Mold Growth Sign #1
Mold spores need water and a feeding source to survive. The feeding sources are plenty because mold will feed on a variety of different items, but the key is the available moisture.
Have you noticed any windows or mirrors in your home fogging up and collecting condensation? If so, this is a sign you have a higher moisture content in certain areas of your home. If you don’t have a proper ventilation system that takes any excess moisture and disposes of it outside of you home, you’re going to experience moisture buildup.
Another sign of higher moisture content is a damp or muggy feeling in certain rooms of your home. This is more prevalent in areas such as your attic or basement. Your attic is an area of your home where the temperature fluctuates on a regular basis and this alone can lead to humidity and moisture buildup. Because basements are underground, that dampness can easily seep in through any cracks or crevices in the wall or foundation and lead to excess moisture as well.
If you suspect any areas of your house to have more moisture than others, there’s a good chance you might have mold.
Mold Growth Sign #2
While mold might be sneaky, it doesn’t mean it’s completely invisible. Mold gives off a very distinct smell. It’s a musty smell and one you most likely associate with a damp feeling in the room.
People often associate this smell with a lack of air circulation but mold growth is another possibility.
If you notice any areas in your home with a musty odor, it’s a good idea to do a spot check for mold.
Mold Growth Sign #3
Are you unknowingly giving mold colonies a virtual buffet of feeding sources?
Mold has the ability to feed on multiple sources which is another reason areas of storage in your home are areas where mold growth is more prevalent. Mold will feed on curtains, fabrics, carpets, and wood and many of those items are stored in your basements and attics.
It’s important to store any possible items in airtight plastic containers. Plastic is one item mold spores do not feed upon and if the containers are sealed, there’s no way for mold to make its way to the contents inside.
Items that can’t be stored this way should be placed away from walls and not leaned on any structural beams if possible. Moisture can collect in the small areas between the item and the walls or beams and lead to a cozy spot for mold to call home.
Mold Growth Sign #4
Unfortunately, those who are allergic to mold will experience symptoms if you have mold growing in your home. Mold growth can cause a wide variety of symptoms in different people depending on the severity of the allergy.
These symptoms can be the typical allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, scratchy throat and watery eyes or they can be more severe. Some people experience respiratory issues, headaches, skin problems and even depression.
It’s important to note that if you don’t have an allergy to mold, you wouldn’t notice anything different, but keep an eye on family members and pets. If they begin to show signs and don’t seem to go away, it might be time to do a spot check.
Contact Us
If you suspect you have mold growth in your home, contact us. We have a team of certified professionals who are willing to answer any questions or ease any fears you might have. Mold removal can seem like an overwhelming issue to tackle but we can help you devise an individualized plan that works with your schedule. Contact us today!
