How to Detect Mold in Your Home – Before it’s a Problem

When people are asked to describe what a mold contaminated house would look like, most would describe it as an old home with a leaky roof and walls/floors covered in green. In reality, detecting a mold contaminated home is not quite that simple. The methods used by certified mold inspectors are a surefire way to detect any spot/stain that is suspected to be mold or any mold spores that may be floating through the air, however, certain signs can be detected by anyone with or without expertise in mold detection. Below is a list of things you may notice in your home or about your health that may be signs of mold contamination. If you notice any of the below signs or symptoms of mold contamination, it may be beneficial to have your home inspected by Mold R Us.

Potential signs of mold contamination include:

• Water damage– If you recently experienced a flood, it is very important you have your home inspected for mold as soon as possible. Mold thrives in wet, humid environments and can spread very quickly as a result of a flood.
• Smell– Mold has a very distinct smell that, if you know the smell, you are likely to know what it is almost instantly. If you smell a musty/heavy smell that doesn’t go away even with candles and air fresheners, there is a good chance that smell could be coming from mold.
• Bubbling Paint– If you notice the paint on your walls (most commonly near windows, doors, or other openings) is beginning to bubble, this may be a sign of moisture that, if not taken care of properly, can and eventually will lead to mold contamination.
• Bathroom exhaust fan– The bathroom is the most common place for mold as it is the area of the home most exposed to moisture. Every time you take a shower, water particles are blasted throughout the room in the form of mist. If the bathroom exhaust fan is not working properly, the mist will settle on the walls and ceiling where, after a period of time, the moisture will build up and inevitably create a habitat for mold to thrive.
• Soft spots in wood floor– You may notice as you walk around your hardwood floor spots that feel soft or squishy. This may be a sign of the wood rotting due to moisture and when there is moisture, there is usually mold.

Potential symptoms caused by mold contamination:

• Dry, itchy skin- When your body comes into contact with mold spores, often it produces histamines which are known to cause red, itchy, irritated skin.
• Watery eyes/nasal congestion- These symptoms are common allergic reactions to mold contamination. It is important to note whether these symptoms intensify in certain areas or spaces as this could point to the areas of the home that are most affected.
• Other common symptoms of mold contamination include:
  • •  Fever
    •  Cough
    •  Tiredness
    •  Headache
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Cold and flu like symptoms

Mold is a monster that, if not taken care of in its early stages, can have monumental impacts on your health both physically and financially. Fortunately, we have methods to combat mold in any stage of its development and, if you pay attention and act if you find yourselves victim to any of these signs or symptoms, you can prevent it from becoming a major issue.

For more information on any of the listed signs or symptoms, mold inspections, or any other inquiries, please call our number at (954)-850-6653 or email Office@moldrus.net to request a quote.