When you own a home or rent an apartment to live in with your family. Some things like mold infestation are issues you hope not to have. However, when they do occur, you might suspect them after they start affecting your health, appear on your wall, or otherwise. Therefore, you must get your home tested for mold infestation as their levels of toxicity are different. Also, it may be in many other areas only that you are not aware of them. The mold you have in your house could be of a different kind with what you know. Thus, in this article, you will learn of warning signs of the presence of mold in your home .
- Water damage
Water damages are common to a home that has a busy household. They are in the form of water leaks in various places of the home. Either the leak is current or previous, this is a warning sign that you need mold inspection experts to come and inspect the property. The leak could be from a roof when it rains or a leaky pipe in the home. As they provide moisture in places often overlooked and can start showing in a ceiling or a wall. Therefore, you mustn’t assume any water damage as it leads to mold. Plus, the more you assume it, the more the mold thrives and spreads.
- Health issues
Most people exposed to indoor mold present itself by affecting their health. This is through showing symptoms of mold exposure through one or more family members. Since there are many types of mold some are more toxic than others. For instance, black mold, as it contains mycotoxins that cause respiratory issues and also affect our skin. Others experience tiredness, nausea, sore throat, watery eyes, among other challenges. Hence, if any member of the home presents with any of these symptoms, you must have your home inspected as it can affect your health further.
- Mold smell
Not everyone can know or get to detect mold by smelling it. However, indoor and outdoor mold smell different. Therefore, if your mold is not visible and you smell damp and musty smell indoors. Probably, it is a sign that you have mold present. Most people who know the smell of mold can easily recognize it when they smell it again. Therefore, depending on where the smell gets stronger, the higher the possibility that there is mold present in that area. Do not assume mold or any strange odor in your home as it has many negative effects.
- Visible mold
When mold is visible and it grows by the day, it is obvious that you have mold present. Hence, having a professional to look at it is important, for it can become a pervasive problem. Sometimes, what you see, is not how far it has spread. Yet, the one you cannot see is the scariest in many cases. Therefore, in such a case, you should get the mold inspected to accurately assess the amount of mold in your home or apartment. Also, there could be more than one type of mold from what you are dealing with and you are not aware of them.
- Flooding aftermath
Unfortunately, after a flood, you may end up having to deal with a mold problem. Either it is immediately after or after some time as a lot can trigger mold in different areas where water was present. Hence, it is good that after a past flood that you contact a mold testing and mediation company that knows how to clean up flooded homes. This will sort out any chance of mold developing as it will be taken care of well. Additionally, it is an assurance that your home is safe to live in after the flood, as it can cause a lot of medical issues.
- Deterioration
Mold can cause a lot of deterioration at home that is visible or invisible. This is by a wallpaper chipping, paint chipping and this, among others is a sign of possible mold. On the other hand, you may notice warping in materials like drywall and wood as well. This signals that there is moisture present that is brought by mold. Another deterioration to keep an eye out for is rusting in the home. This is common in the pipes when there is a high moisture level you may have mold issues to solve.
- Dark grout
If the grout on your shower tiles or kitchen tiles turns dark in color. That is possibly a mold present that can be harmful or not. Hence, consulting a professional after it reoccurs is important. It may be a harmful type of mold. Therefore, if you fixed a recent leak or you had flooding in the adjacent room, it could be mold that needs to be removed by professionals. Optionally, it can be a toxic type of fungus that needs to be cleared out. Hence send a sample for testing or get the professionals to come to inspect it to ensure that your shower or kitchen is safe.
- Use of a humidifier
A humidifier is perfect for your health, particularly during dry weather. Its moisture is good for the skin and it opens up your airways if you get nasal blockages due to allergies. However, it can be a booster that creates a breeding ground for mold. Hence, if you constantly need a humidifier you need to keep an eye open for any growing mold caused by the extra moisture. Also, it is important to clean the humidify once in a while, as it can also have mold from the inside due to the presence of water. This will prevent breathing any harmful moisture from the humidifier.
In summary, mold is an enemy to any household. Either you can see it, or you can only smell it. Mold needs to be removed, and once this is done you will clear from any mold symptoms and have a conducive living environment in no time. Get it tested as soon as you notice it as it can cause permanent damage. Use the above warning signals to help with possible mold infestation.
