Mold Facts That Every Homeowner Needs To Know
Mold in the home can be dangerous. Mold sickness is real and can make your entire family ill with a variety of allergy symptoms. If you suspect your home has mold and that it is affecting your health, consider having professional mold inspection services take a look. In the mean time, you can learn how to spot signs of mold in your own home.
Signs Of Mold In The Home
Mold in the home is a serious problem, and finding mold contamination before it grows and spreads throughout the home can save your money and prevent health issues.
You should for mold if your family has any of these allergy-like symptoms.
- Sneezing
- Coughing or wheezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sinus headaches
- Water, itchy eyes
- Itchy skin
- Sore throat
These symptoms are often worse for those who have asthma or other allergies.
Mold also causes issues within the home. It affects air quality and also leaves unsightly stains and odors in the home. While mold does not cause structural damage, it does lead to fungi growth which can eventually cause structural damage to the home.
Where to Look For Mold
Mold develops and thrives in damp, humid areas of the home.
- Basements
- Crawlspaces
- Showers
- Ventilation ducts
- Around heater and air conditioner
A mold inspector does a visual inspection of these areas. The inspector also asks the homeowner about areas where leaks or moisture problems are common to ensure all possible mold-friendly areas are checked.
Types Of Mold Found In Homes
Mold grows in a variety of colors, but no matter the color, it doesn't belong in your home. Toxic mold is the most dangerous type and the one causing health issues.
There are some types of toxic mold often found in homes.
- Stachybotrys (black mold)
- Chaetomium
- Aspergillus
- Alternaria
- Fusarium
- Penicillium
Any of these molds can cause anything from allergies and respiratory symptoms to eye infections and neurological issues.
Keep Home Dry To Prevent Mold
Since mold needs moisture to grow and spread, keeping the home dry is the best way to prevent its growth. Inspect the home for leaks in plumbing, the heating and air conditioning and basements.
High humidity also causes issues, so the use of a dehumidifier can prevent mold growth by regulating humidity levels in basements and other areas.
If you see mold in your home, it's a good idea to call a professional in mold inspection services to thoroughly inspect all areas of the home. Professionals know where to look and what to look for so a professional inspection is important.
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