5 Signs That Your House Has a Mold Problem
Mold is a type of fungus caused by excess moisture. When left untreated, mold can multiply and lead to severe problems for a house’s structural integrity and its occupant’s health. To fix a mold problem permanently, know the signs before it gets out of hand.
1. Dampness
Mold thrives in damp environments, especially in areas that have poor air circulation and have gone too long without dryer vent cleaning in Denver or any location. If you have water leaks in the house or have experienced flooding in the past, it’s important that you inspect your home from top to bottom for the presence of mold.
If you constantly notice condensation on windows, mirrors, or metal pipes, it’s a good sign that there is too much moisture in the air. An indoor environment with high humidity is the perfect breeding ground for mold, so maintaining a normal humidity level in the house is the first step to arresting their growth.
2. Allergies
If you have allergies, you may be more susceptible to mold-related allergic reactions. If you or another member of your family experiences the following symptoms, you may have a mold problem in the house:
- Wheezing
- Watery eyes
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sore throat
- Rashes
- Dry cough
- Sinusitis
- Red eyes
- Shortness of breath
People with asthma and other respiratory problems may also experience an exacerbation of their symptoms when they are exposed to mold. When this happens, immediate treatment of mold should be a priority.
3. Moldy smell
Mold has a unique smell that becomes more obvious when there are increased amounts of mold in the house. If you start to smell mold, particularly in mold-prone areas such as chimneys, basements, and attics, inspect your home thoroughly to find the source of the smell.
4. Bubbling paint
When paint starts to bubble, especially in damp areas like bathrooms or basements, it can indicate the presence of moisture inside the painted surface. Chances are, there is also mold in the paint.
If you spot bubbling paint in your walls or ceilings, find the source of the moisture (e.g., leaky pipe, excess humidity, etc.) and get rid of the mold before you repaint the surface.
5. Visible mold
Many people who have mold problems don’t spot mold growing in their home until it has taken over a significant area in their house. Most of the time, small amounts of mold are seen as dirt or soot. And since mold can come in many colors apart from black, it can be hard to spot against paint or wallpaper.
If you spot even a small amount of mold in your house, take care of it before the growth spreads, which can happen at an alarming rate if your home is very humid.
The presence of mold can cause numerous problems for your house. And if you don’t want to deal with costly repairs or mold removal, keep an eye out for these signs of mold present in your home so you can address the problem immediately and permanently.
