When mold invades your home, there are often obvious warning signs. The odor is musty and earthy, and spores can be found in porous materials like upholstered furniture or foam.
Visible stains or discoloration on paint or wallpaper are another obvious sign of mold. However, if the odor is confined to one area, it could indicate more hidden mold growth.
Unpleasant Smells
If you notice a musty smell, that’s a good indication that it’s time to schedule mold testing. Musty odors are often caused by mildew and mold.
When left untreated, mold can cause long-term health problems. Symptoms of mold exposure can include headaches and fatigue.
Mold is usually found in damp, warm, and humid areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. However, it can grow on drywall, ceiling tiles, and behind sinks. It thrives in environments with the right amount of moisture, like Goldilocks’ porridge, which is not too hot or cold.
This is why it’s important to check the property for any signs of moisture issues before buying a home. The right mold testing Portland Oregon will reveal whether there are any hidden areas of water damage or if you need to install a dehumidifier.
Water Stains
If you notice water stains on ceilings, walls or floors, it could indicate a mold problem. Mold thrives in damp and dark areas with poor ventilation. Even if you have recently repaired a leaky roof, foundation cracks or other water damage problems, the moisture behind these crevices can continue to breed mold.
A musty odor is another indicator of a potential mold problem. This odor comes from the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) mold releases.
If you have a home with a history of floods, broken pipes or other water damage problems, have an inspector examine the area for hidden mold growth. These areas of your home are prone to mold because of unprotected building materials, poor ventilation and other issues that make them ideal breeding grounds.
Unusual Odors
If you smell a musty odor that reminds you of a damp basement or stale old books, it could be a sign of mold present. That musty odor results from mold and mildew growth, so it’s best to take a closer look at that area to see what you can find.
It’s also a good idea to inspect areas where there was previously water damage, as mold will grow in these cool and dark places. Look for discolored walls, ceilings and floors that may indicate mold colonies have developed behind the wall or floor surface. This is a sure indicator that it’s time for mold testing. This will help determine the extent of the damage. This is important because mold can be damaging to a home or business.
Health Issues
Molds can cause various health issues, but the exact impact depends on each person’s susceptibility to different substances. Some people may experience headaches, memory problems and mood swings, while others may get a fever or shortness of breath.
It is essential to note that a mold problem should never be ignored, especially if it can affect the respiratory system. If occupants are experiencing any of the health symptoms mentioned above, working with a professional mold testing and inspection company is vital.
Mold spores thrive in areas where there is moisture. Therefore, a water leak or flooding is often the precursor to a mold problem. Whether it’s from a leaky roof, wet basement, damp crawl space, poorly vented dryer or any other maintenance issue, you should work with an inspector to resolve the moisture problem.
Pre-Existing Water Stains
Moisture damage is a reliable precursor to mold, and any area with traces of moisture should be subject to a thorough mold inspection. Even the smallest areas of decay can amplify quickly if not dealt with as soon as possible.
Look for dark spots that resemble stains or discolorations on the surfaces in your home. They may look wet or fuzzy to the touch and are often black or green.
If you suspect a mold problem in your home, schedule a mold inspection with an InterNACHI inspector. These inspectors are trained to recognize the signs of a mold problem and the conducive conditions that allow mold to thrive. They can also help you find the source of the mold so that it can be treated and eliminated as quickly as possible.