You may have noticed mold spores in your house. While some of these spores can be beneficial, some are also destructive, especially when they find a moist spot where they can grow. If the mold continues to grow, it can be destructive to your home and cause health issues. Knowing the signs of mold in the house can help you take measures and prevent further spread.
What is Mold: Definition and Causes
Mold is a type of fungus, comprising small organisms. They are usually found everywhere and play various roles in the ecosystem. Outdoors, molds help in breaking down dead leaves, trees, and plants. While they can still play the same role indoors, they can affect your health.
Mold thrives on moisture, reproducing by tiny spores that travel through the air. In moist indoor areas, it takes only 24 to 48 hours for molds to grow. You may have noticed fuzzy white patches on your kitchen floor, black spots on your towel, or the slick orange film that forms on your pipes. All these may be an indication of household mold, which is not only unpleasant to look at but also a threat to your family’s health.
What are the Signs of Mold in the House?
If your house has hidden mold, it can spread easily and within a short time. Although it is not always easy to identify, you can check for certain early signs of mold in the house. To get you started here is how to know if you have mold in your house:
1. Visible Mold Spores
The most obvious signs of mold in the house are visible mold spores. These indicate mold infestation and will usually increase as the infestation gets worse.
2. Damp, Musty, or Earthy Smell
If you notice a musty, damp, or earthy smell in your house, it could be an indication of mold infestation. As the infestation gets worse, you may notice a more pungent smell like sweaty socks or rotten meat. Although a moldy smell can also be caused by wet laundry and rotting food, a professional can perform a mold test on your home to confirm.
3. Dark Spots on Surfaces
Dark spots on your walls and other surfaces that look like stains or discolorations may be an indication of mold infestation. The most common colors of molds include black and green, although sometimes it may appear furry or wet and slimy.
4. Warped Walls
Another common sign of mold in the house is warping, cracking, bubbling, or surface abnormalities on your walls. The immediate fix is to find where moisture is coming from such as leaky plumbing or windowsills. Also, make sure to clean and dry your walls thoroughly before repainting them.
5. Squishy Floor
Parts of your floor can be squishy because of moisture problems. However, it may also be because mold is already growing in the sub-floor. Since it is not easy to access your subfloor, you may need to pull up some parts to check for mold growth and clean it if it is not widespread. For complete mold infestation removal, consider working with a professional.
6. Allergic Reactions
Seasonal allergy in your home that seems not to go away and worsens when you’re home may indicate the presence of mold. Symptoms of hidden mold include stuffy or runny nose, itchy eyes, itchy throat, skin irritation, and dry skin.
7. Struggle with Respiratory Issues
Mold spores can cause health complications when inhaled. They can worsen asthma symptoms and cause respiratory infections. You may experience shortness of breath or even severe coughing and sneezing. In the worst-case scenario, the fungus can start to grow in your lungs, causing symptoms such as chest pain, fever, and coughing up blood. If you notice such symptoms, immediately seek medical attention and have your home inspected for mold.
8. Your HVAC System Smells Weird
Mold in homes often find shelter in damp and dark HVAC systems. A musty smell from your HVAC system after turning it on or any dark spots on its filter may indicate it is contaminated by mold. Installing HEPA filters in your HVAC can help remove airborne mold spores in your home.
9. Dark Tile Grout
Dark grout on your shower tiles is one of the most common early signs of mold in the house. It is usually caused by trapped water vapor in your bathroom because of poor ventilation. Recent flooding and leaks may also cause toxic mold. It is best you consult a mold testing and remediation professional to address the issue.
Hire an Expert to Inspect and Get Rid of Mold
If you notice any of the signs of mold in your house, consider hiring an expert to test and help get rid of it. At The Mold Inspection, we have a team of experts who will carefully inspect your home and clean all the mold, ensuring it is safe for you and your family. Get in touch today for any inquiries or book an inspection.
