Why Mold Detection Should be a Priority for Homeowners

If you’re like most people, you probably associate mold detection with that musty odor in your basement or the black patches that appear in your shower.

While mold detection is often dismissed as a common nuisance, the fact is that it may represent a major threat to your health and the structural integrity of your house. According to the EPA, the average American spends 90% of their time inside, making the existence of mold a concern for everyone.

This article will discuss how to perform mold detection in your house and the key indicators to look out for, particularly those that indicate the presence of black mold.

How To Detect Mold In Your House?

Mold is a dangerous condition that may harm both the construction of a building and the health of its occupants. Furthermore, its growth is not always visible, which is why you need to check for this type of growth frequently. Here are a couple of steps you can take to figure out whether or not you’re dealing with mold.

Additionally, you can employ these measures to prevent mold growth or address the issue promptly if you find any signs.

Initial Assessment

The first step to home mold detection is to survey the entire property to determine the amount and severity of the mold. Here, you’ll need to rely on technology as well as visual assessment to do this task accurately. 

Moisture Metering

Mold formation typically results from excessive moisture. Furthermore, a professional mold inspection technique that includes moisture metering can assist in figuring out if a given area is susceptible to excessive dampness. This, in turn, reveals the impacted locations and the possibility of mold growth in some areas.

Air Sampling

Unpleasant smells are a dead giveaway that mold is present. Moreover, to detect mold in the air, air samples are tested using specialized equipment to assess the mold’s intensity. This procedure validates the presence of mold in the air and determines whether indoor or outdoor factors cause the problem.

Surface Sampling

When mold is discovered in a house, it is necessary to do further investigation for detection. Be sure to collect samples from affected regions and have them analyzed in a laboratory. If present, this technology helps with the detection of otherwise undetectable mold.

Thermal Imaging 

Another useful black mold detection technique is measuring temperature differences across different locations. It allows mold inspectors and testing advisers to detect the property’s moisture issue.

Signs Your Home Needs A Mold Inspection

The most evident indicator of mold is the presence of visible microorganisms. When you spot tiny flying and crawling insects in the indoor atmosphere, it’s time to bring in the professionals. But, as previously said, mold frequently works quietly and discreetly. Here are some things to keep an eye out for while dealing with this hazard:

Water Damage 

Water damage introduces moisture into your property. As a result, moisture and mold thrive together. To detect mold, start by determining the source of the water damage. If your property has experienced flooding recently, it’s crucial to inspect for mold after it’s been cleaned and dried. Keep an eye out for water marks or staining on ceilings, flooring, or around plumbing pipes. If you notice any, it’s time to call in the pros to check for mold growth.

Humidity 

If you reside in a high-humidity location or often use dryers, humidifiers, and steam radiators, you should get your home’s humidity levels assessed. Install bathroom and kitchen fans, use a dehumidifier, and leave your windows open on dry days.

Damp Smell 

Does your house smell musty? It might be an indication that mold or mildew is forming someplace in your home. Keep an eye out for the smell to become stronger after rain or as the seasons change.

Health Complications

In general, if your symptoms of allergy improve after you leave your house, you may be suffering from mold-related allergies.

Sneezing fits, throat irritation, cough, respiratory disorders such as chest tightness, wheezing, difficulty breathing, painful and itchy throat, nasal, runny nose, sinus congestion, and so on are the most prominent symptoms. Mold inspection and detection is an excellent approach to protect your house and family against mold. 

Conclusion

After a thorough examination process, you may need to look into hiring a company for mold remediation. Removing black mold on your own, without any protective gear, isn’t advised, and you can end up severely hurting yourself.The extensive cleaning process is best left to professionals to ensure that the mold in your house is not only removed but won’t return. Since you’re dealing with something that could be detrimental to your health, it’s important to understand the causes and how to detect and remove mold effectively from your home.