What Does Mold Smell Like and How to Detect It at Home?

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Most people can agree that every house has its own unique smell, which often reflects the nature of the home and those who live in it. However, sometimes, some factors can change the smell to be less than appealing, one of them being mold. And though mold doesn’t always have a strong smell, it’s certainly noticeable, can ruin your home’s appeal and create a very unhealthy living environment.

Fortunately, we are here to tell you what mold smells like and how you can detect it. And while we’re at it, we’ll also check out a few ways you can deal with it!

What Does Mold Smell Like?

More often than not, people imagine mold as having a lingering, musty, and extremely pungent odor. Yet, others describe it as having an earthy, meaty smell, or even an odor that resembles rotten wood or wet socks. But regardless of whom you ask, for most homeowners, the smell can be unbearable and extremely unpleasant.

But why does mold smell so bad? Simply put, as mold grows, it emits gases known as MVOC’s or microbial volatile organic compounds. As a result, you are not only smelling mold, but also every chemical it releases at different stages throughout its growth cycle. And while most of those chemicals are harmless, some can cause health problems for your family and your pets.

How Can I Detect It At Home?

Generally speaking, you will be able to detect mold by simply walking around an infested area as the smell is usually noticeable. So, if you smell anything musty, woody, or damp, you are most likely dealing with mold. However, if you are still not sure about the source of the smell, you can try to open a window. Why? Because the odor of mold will persist no matter how many windows you open or air fresheners you use.

But sometimes, you might be unable to detect the smell of mold, especially during the early stages of its growth. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you get your air quality tested by using a testing kit. Similarly, you can request the help of a certified mold testing and inspection company, as they can also help you remove mold once detected.

What Should I Do Once I Smell Mold?

It’s important to remember that the longer you take to address the smell of mold, the more it will spread and become even more pungent. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to isolate the source of the smell as soon as possible. In fact, if left untreated, it can spread to new places, which will make the removal process even more difficult and more expensive. And while most people can handle small mold infestations, it’s always best to call a removal specialist.

Luckily, you can always rely on a mold remediation company such as Mold Solutions. Not only are we able to inspect your home and detect traces of mold, but we can also take the necessary steps to remove and prevent further infestations. And best of all, we do it all at some of the most affordable prices on the market!

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get rid of that pesky mold smell with Mold Solutions!

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