Mold is rather common in households. Mold doesn’t mean you don’t take care of your house or don’t clean enough. All it really means is that there is an abundance of moisture in specific areas. This is why you will see mold most outside along the walls of your home, along window panes, and in the bathroom. Sometimes, mold cannot be easily seen or located. Mold takes time to grow, so it might not be noticeable in the first couple of stages of its growth. Thankfully, there are professionals that can conduct professional mold remediation, which is a process of mold removal and preventative care. So how do you know when mold is growing in your home? When is it time to get mold remediation done? We list the indicators for you.
Strange Odors
The odors may not always be the same, but one thing that most mold-based odors share is that they are rather pungent and noticeable the more that mold grows. If you have noticed any new smells, this may be due to mold growth. While you may not be able to see the mold growth for yourself, going by smell is a reliable way to detect mold. Some mold can grow behind curtains, under carpets, in walls with insulation, or between tiles, so this might be the source of the smell.
Dark-Colored Spots in Corners
Mold loves to grow in corners because that is where moisture gets trapped the most. With that being said, you might notice dark-colored corners. Mold is not limited to growth in corners. Mold can also be found on flat surfaces. So when mold is left to grow for a long time, it can start to discolor surfaces. Often, it will look splotchy and create circular shapes. If you have noticed these stains, you most likely need mold remediation.
Stains on Your Ceilings
Just as we mentioned that mold is not limited to corners, if you don’t have mold lying between bathroom ceilings, you might be able to find it on your ceilings. Mold stains often form in yellow, brown or orange (besides black) hues. It all really depends on the substance in which the mold is settling. It will vary, but for the most part, mold will have more yellow or brown stains on your ceiling.
Water Damage
Water damage often results in peeling wallpapers, crack in the paint or the walls, or dips or rips in the ceiling. If your home has a history of flooding or water damage, your home is more susceptible to mold and mildew growth. If you have noticed any damage to your ceiling or walls, it would be best to look into mold remediation right away to find the source of the problem.
Flooding or Water Leak
If you are experiencing flooding or water leaks more than normal, you should keep an eye out for mold growth. Even after flushing out any additional water, it can become easily trapped and mold can start to grow. Carpets can be a breeding ground for mold because they hold onto dirt and dust more than anything else, so when they get wet, they are the perfect place for mold to grow.
Condensation
Condensation arises in humid atmospheres. The best example is when you have finished taking a hot shower. When warmth and moisture meet a cold surface, water droplets will build. This type of moisture encourages mold growth, especially if there are certain areas in your home where it is always wet or if you have a swamp cooler. With that being said, mold could even grow on swamp coolers or air conditioning units, depending on the temperature in your home.
Allergies or Illness
Mold can wreak havoc in your home by inducing allergies. Have you been sneezing more than normal? Itchy eyes? Runny nose? All while you are in your own home? Mold can be the culprit. If you or your family members are suffering from these symptoms or conditions, the chances are very likely that you may be facing a mold allergy, even worse, a mold infestation.
Look Into the Mold Remediation Services at Complete Fire & Water Restoration
Complete Fire & Fire Restoration is El Paso’s number one source for water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, and much more. If your house has experienced water or fire damage, contact us today to learn more about how we can apply the appropriate repairs and care.