Damage caused by mold growth in your home can be a huge inconvenience, and if the damage is severe enough, costly to repair. Mold forms in environments where moisture is present and it is important to know how to detect when there is mold growth in your home, and how to solve this issue.

We offer expert Mold Removal and Mold Remediation services throughout Central Florida, including Orange City, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Altamonte Springs, Orlando, Leesburg, and more.

SIGNS OF MOLD

Here is a list of signs to be aware of when checking for mold growth in your home:

SMELL
When there is mold growth present, you can often smell it. If there are some rooms that contain a stronger scent, then it is more likely that those possess mold growing in them. If the moldy smell is worse when the air conditioning or heater is on, then the source of the mold could be in the air conditioning or heating system.

HEALTH PROBLEMS
Mold growth is known to cause problems with your health. Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms without a known cause, it is possible that mold is growing in your home.

Sore eyes - Asthma - Coughing - Sneezing - Skin Irritation - Sore Throat - Headaches - Joint Pain

People do not always recognize that these symptoms are caused by mold. A clear indicator that mold may be the cause of your symptoms is that when you leave your home the symptoms decrease. In addition, if your family is experiencing the same symptoms, mold is likely to be the cause.

SIGHT
People often overlook mold growth in their home. Mold often forms in bathrooms, on walls or the grout between tiles. Sometimes homeowners do not realize that it is mold growing between the tiles or they simply ignore it due to its small amount. People might ignore small amounts of mold, even though they can see it. However, small amounts of mold means there is enough moisture for mold to grow. This can mean that there is more mold growth in your home. For instance, mold growth inside a wall can lead to small spots of mold on the outside of the wall.

WATER LEAKAGE
Water leaks can lead to mold growth. Leaks in pipes or the roof allow moisture to be let in. If you have any of these problems in your home it is important to check for mold growth, especially if the leak had been undetected for a long time. Leaks can also lead to water damage making it crucial to repair because mold and water damage will be costly to correct.

HUMIDITY
High humidity can lead to condensation and water accumulation. Humidity above 60% can lead to the formation of mold. If your home has a humidity level above 60%, check for mold growth. A hygrometer can be used to monitor the humidity level in your home.

FLOODING
If your home has experienced a flood in the past then it is possible that you may have mold in your home. Parts of your home that were left wet for 24 hours, such as drywall, could potentially have mold. Past flooding can mean that there may be hidden old growth, so it is important to have your home thoroughly checked and repaired after a flood.

LACK OF VENTILATION
Poor ventilation in your home allows for moisture build up. If your home does not have proper ventilation, mold can form from the moisture that is not being ventilated. This is often seen in attics.

DUST
A home with dust is more likely to have mold. Mold grows on dust and dust can transport mold spores around your home.

WATER STAINS
Water stains on walls and ceilings can be an indicator of mold growth if the yellowish color turns darker. Ceiling leaks can cause water stains on walls and ceilings.

RUST
Rust in your home can mean that there is a moisture problem in your home. Where there is moisture, mold is likely to follow. Check your home for mold if rust forms on any surfaces.

WHERE TO LOOK

Laundry Room
Front loading washing machines are prone to mold growth because the gasket around the door usually remains wet for a period of time after the wash is complete.

Window Seals
Condensation on window seals provides the moisture that mold needs to grow. If the seals are old, stiff, and brittle they probably are not providing a good seal and are possibly allowing the passage of water into the home beneath the window sill.

Refrigerator Drip Pans
Drip pans collect moisture under your fridge and people often forget to check for mold growth there.

Chimneys
Chimney crevices often collect water and dirt, therefore mold is likely to form without your knowledge.

Attics
Roof leaks are often not discovered for a while after they start. Also, if your attic is not properly ventilated, mold can occur.

Bathrooms
Mold can grow in bathrooms from excessive humidity and from leaks.

Under Carpeting
When carpets get wet, the water will soak all the way down to padding and floor below. If the carpet on top dries it does not mean the padding or flooring below is dry. In as little as 24 hours, mold can start to grow.

Mold in your home can be discovered by any of the signs stated above. It is important to detect mold as soon as possible to avoid serious damage to your home.

Moisture is the main cause for mold growth, which is why it is extremely important to keep moisture accumulation in your home controlled. If moisture is a known problem in your home, it is wise to check your home everywhere for mold, especially areas containing any of the problems listed above.

Mold can grow on any surface if the conditions are right. It is important for your home and your health to discover its presence quickly and remove it.