Mold is an invaluable part of our ecosystem as it assists in the decomposition of plant and animal materials outside. Mold is part of the fungi family, so they produce tiny spores that float in the air. The downside is these spores can enter your home via heating and air vents, pets’ windows, and doors. With a little bit of moisture and dim lighting, these spores can start growing. In fact, after just 48 hours of water damage in your home, mold colonies can begin to form.
Where They Grow
Mold can grow on fabrics, carpets, paper, wood. Its favorite places are:
- Around the windows
- In basements
- Near leaky pipes
- In bathrooms
- Attics
- Crawlspaces
Mold thrives in these dark, damp places.
Signs of Mold
Mold begins as a tiny dot but quickly spreads. Unless it’s in a remote place, you’ll probably notice it right away. Mold might be black, white, speckled, or any other color, and it can be powdery, cottony, or velvety in appearance. Some signs mold could be in your home are:
- There is an earthy or musty smell in your home or a particular area. (Especially if there was earlier water damage)
- There is warping or peeling of your wallpaper or paint.
- There is dirt between the grout on your tiles. (It is more than likely not dirt)
- Your home has had previous water damage.
Other indications that your home may be infested with mold can manifest physically in your health. Some physical health signs or symptoms of mold exposure may be in your home include:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy skin
- Watery eyes
- Asthma
- Chest tightness
Getting Rid of Mold
If you think you’ve got mold in your home, remove it as quickly as you can. Suppose you can see the mold spot, a little bit of bleach, and some protective gear and preparations, removal can be done by yourself. If you think mold has trespassed on your home where you can not see it, but smell it, calling in a professional may be needed. It is more than likely within the walls or floors and has grown more than you can handle.
While there are several forms of mold, and you’ve probably heard of the dreaded black mold, all mold is mold, and it should be eradicated regardless.
