Here’s What You Need To Know About The Dangers Of Mold In Your Home

Mold can be found just about everywhere. It floats through the air you breathe, and the spores can settle on your clothing after a walk outdoors. Unless you have a mold allergy, mold won’t have a drastic effect on you. If mold settles in your home, however, it can be a major problem. 

Mold is caused by moisture, so if you have water damage or high humidity with low ventilation, you have a perfect mold breeding ground. As those harmless mold spores settle into the moisture, it can lead to an infestation. If you suspect mold growth in your home, look for these signs of confirmation. 

Common Signs Of Mold Growth

Smell – You might have a wet, musty, or unpleasant odor in your home. This is usually in a central location. It occurs when mold spores have settled and begun to spread. 

Water damage – If you see any signs of water damage, such as a patch or flood marks, check the area for mold. High levels of moisture and water damage of any type increases your risk of mold growth. 

Growth – Visual confirmation is a sure sign that you need professional help. Look for dark patches or fuzzy areas of mold growth. 

Mold Can Affect Your Health

Even if you don’t have mold allergies, a large mold infestation in your home can negatively affect your health. Mold can have an especially toxic effect on children, the elderly, and pets. Here are some of the most common symptoms of mold exposure:

• 
  Rashes
• Watery and itchy eyes
• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Redness (skin or eyes)
• Throat and eye irritation 
• Breathing problems (wheezing, shortness of breath)

The longer the exposure, the worse these symptoms can get. Long-term exposure to mold can cause chronic respiratory disease and can even increase your risk of developing certain cancers or heart disease. If you suspect mold as the reason for your health concerns, schedule a visit with your doctor. 

What To Do If You Discover Mold 

Since mold is a result of excess moisture, the first thing to do is figure out where the water is coming from. More often than not, it’s due to a small plumbing leak or a roof leak. If the mold is located under a bathroom or kitchen sink where there could be a plumbing leak, call a plumber to investigate. If you think the leak is coming from the roof, have a roofer inspect and seal any gaps. Once the leak is fixed, it’s time to call a professional mold remediation service. 

A professional service like Disaster Response has the proper chemicals and tools required to ensure no mold residue remains after treatment. If you discover any of the telltale signs of mold in your home, contact us. We know where to look, what to look for, and how to get rid of it quickly. Plus, we can test your home to ensure that the mold hasn’t spread to other areas. Don’t wait; call today.