Toxic Homes

Mold is a common, but serious issue many people have. Whether you rent or own your home, mold can enter and easily become an infestation.

We’ll go into a brief overview of what creates mold problems and a deeper view of the signs of mold. To conclude, we will give some advice on what to do if you suspect a mold infestation beginning in your house.

What Creates Mold?

Mold is pretty much everywhere. As mold spores fly around, they can attach themselves to practically anything from pets, people, cars, and clothes. They come in through open windows, doors, and generally any entryway or hole a house may have.

If your house develops a leak (most generally do at some point), standing water and wet materials will be the primary conductor of a mold infestation. Floods will 100% create a mold infestation, especially if it’s a basement flood or natural disaster such as a hurricane. Walls that are warping and soft will indicate where water has penetrated. Even bubbling or peeling wallpaper will indicate water issues that need to be addressed immediately.

People living in humid climates, such as Florida or on coastlines, have a tendency to have more problems with mold. However, that doesn’t mean mold can’t develop in drier climates either. Mold thrives in humidity and houses can have high levels of humidity even if they are in a drier climate.You can prevent mold by reducing the level of humidity in your house. By using an air conditioner or dehumidifier, mold will have a hard time growing if percent levels are kept down to 50%.

Key Signs of Mold

However, if you suspect your house has mold, here are some signs to look out for:

The most common sign of mold is a musty odor. Sometimes, this is really the only sign you have to mold. Some people are more sensitive to mold than others. People with allergies, asthma, respiratory issues, and immune suppression will have an adverse effect on mold. If there is an odd odor that doesn’t quite go away and you and/or your family members are seeing an uptick in breathing problems or sicknesses, then it is probably time to find a mold specialist.

Another common physical sign is discoloration of walls, stains, or black spots along walls and ceiling. It is actually common that you are looking right at a mold spot on your wall. Sometimes what people think is a smudge of dirt or an odd stain from age is actually mold growing and showing itself.

How to Rid Mold

Mold is very common, but serious problem. If you suspect mold then you will need to find the source and get rid of it with a bleach/water solution. Porous substances such as ceiling tiles and carpet will need to be tossed and if there is water damage in the house, then a certified contractor will need to be arranged. Improving indoor quality is something all homeowners should take seriously as it can create health implications for yourself and your family.

Key Signs of Mold
CDC