Mold in the home is dangerous, as you have just read. But the signs may not be so obvious when mold infests your house. Even the most spotless, sparkling-clean homes may have mold lurking in unexpected places, and identifying key warning signs that you might have mold in your home will help you take action on time.

1. Mold odor

Not all molds produce a smell, but many do. If there is a damp, musty odor reminiscent of the smell of old books emanating from your floors or walls, these stenches could be caused by "mold volatile organic compounds" (MVOCs) or chemicals released during the mold life cycle. If you smell a persistent musty odor, your home might have mold.

2. Visible signs of mold growth

Some molds might appear white and thread-like; others appear in clusters of small back spots. Mold might be gray-brown, black, gray-green, or white. The mold that grows behind vinyl and wallpaper might be orange, pink, or purple. If you see visible mold, you need to reach out to a mold remediation company or another expert to help you get things under control, including any leaks that may have caused the issue in the first place.

3. Signs of water damage

Any long-term moisture will inevitably lead to mold. If your home has water stains and discoloration on walls, floor, or ceilings, or if you notice bubbling, cracking, or peeling paint or wallpaper, you're likely dealing with mold-producing problems. If mold is growing on an exterior wall or ceiling, first look for a leak in the wall or roof as a test for mold. Measure from the moldy area to a reference point like a door, then find the spot on the other side of the wall or ceiling.

4. Water leaks

Mold growth from leaks isn't always noticeable, especially if the leak is behind a wall or other hidden surface. If you know of a leak, it's essential to repair it quickly. The mold feeds off a nearby leak if you see mold near water pipes, waste lines, icemaker lines, or plumbing fixtures. Let the water run while you check the pipes and surrounding area for damp spots to see if there's mold from water leaking.

5. Past flooding

If your home has experienced any flooding in the past, then it's very likely that you have some form of mold growth as a result.

6. Fungus in the Furniture

Mildew attracts moist leather and wood, and mold particles are more likely to be retained in porous materials like upholstered furniture and foam. Frequently inspect the fibers of your furniture for any discolored spots, fuzz, or spores.

A quick test for mold can be done when you dip a swab in diluted bleach (1 part bleach, 16 parts water) and dab it on the wall. If the spot quickly lightens (or keeps coming back after cleaning), assume it's mold. Mold test kits detect the presence and the type of mold, but they won't help determine the cause or what to do about it.

As we know, mold can harm one's health, so it is critical to dry out a property as soon as possible to avoid microbial growth and colonization of spores. However, many water leaks go undetected and result in mold being present. No Worries! Call us at AquaSeekers to schedule an appointment, and we'll come out and go over all your options. We work quickly and promptly to remediate your commercial or residential property.

Phone: 800-807-9291
Address: 1734 SW Millikin Ave Port Saint Lucie, FL 34953

Sources: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-test-for-mold/
https://insideandoutpropertyinspectors.com/what-are-the-signs-and-symptoms-of-having-mold-in-your-house/
https://www.toptenreviews.com/signs-your-house-has-mold
https://www.insider.com/is-there-mold-in-my-house-2018-12#you-feel-like-you-have-a-lingering-cold-or-are-battling-flu-like-symptoms-2
https://www.procleannotsomekid.com/11-sneaky-signs-of-mold-in-your-home
https://www.aquaseekers.com/services/mold-remediation/