Mold can grow in many different places. But, the place you have to worry about it growing the most is your home. But, how can one tell if mold is growing in the home and what should you do when you find it? Learn more about how to detect mold in your home, ways to prevent mold, and what you should do if you find mold in your home.
What is Mold and Where Does it Grow?
Molds are fungi that grow by spreading minuscule spores throughout the air. It can grow nearly anywhere that’s dark and humid, so it needs moisture to thrive. This means that mold is usually growing in homes where there is access to water. So, the most common areas that people find mold in their homes is the basement, kitchen, and bathroom.
Mold is something that homeowners need to look out for because it can cause damage to the home. For example, it can take over fabric on furniture and even lead to structural damage. But, not only does mold cause damage to the home, but it can also cause damage to our physical health. So, if mold is present in the home, it’s important to address it immediately.
Physical Health Symptoms are a Sign of Mold Growth
If you’re wondering how to detect mold growing in your home, one way to do so is to evaluate the health of your family and those living in your home. Since mold can lead to physical health damage, if mold is present in your home, some of the symptoms of this damage may be a sign that mold is growing.
Some of the signs of physical damage as the result of mold growth can include:
-coughing
-weezing
-sore throat
-sneezing
-difficulty breathing
-itching and irritation of the eyes/skin
-headaches
It’s important to understand that while not all mold causes health issues, the ones that do can be serious. Elderly and infant individuals are the most at risk for health-related issues caused by toxic mold growth, which can include death.
Some Other Signs of Mold Growth in the Home
Besides health-related issues as the result of mold growth giving you a better idea of whether or not mold is growing in your home, there are other ways to check for mold. Some of the other ways to determine if mold is growing in your home can include:
A Musty Smell: The smell of mold is something that is very unique. Once you’ve smelled it, you can identify that it’s mold as it’s so distinctive. Many describe the smell of mold as musty, somewhat comparable to the smell of rotting wood.
Water Damage: As mentioned, mold requires water to thrive. So, if you notice water damage in your home, if it’s located in a place that’s dark, you’re likely to find mold. If you think you have water damage in your home, it’s a good idea to inspect the area for any potential mold growth. And, address the mold along with the water leaking issue so that mold doesn’t regrow.
Seeing Mold: Most obviously, if you see mold growing on any surface of your home, you have mold. As there are thousands of different kinds of mold, mold has many different characteristics depending on the type. Colors of mold can include brown, white, black, green, pink, purple, orange, and white.
Dealing With Mold When It’s Identified
To stop the spread of mold and the potential dangers it threatens, it must be dealt with immediately once it’s identified. Fortunately, professional mold removal specialists can help to remediate mold so it’s no longer an issue. Find a mold remediation specialist in your area if you notice mold growing in your home.
