How To Tell
If You Need a Mold Inspection
Small mold problems can become big mold problems by simply
not recognizing early warning signs. Sometimes a small
amount of mold on a surface is nothing more than what it
seems. Other times it can be an indication of a much bigger
problem. [see Hidden Mold]
Periodic inspections of your home or place of business for
early warning signs of mold growth can save thousands of
dollars in costly repairs. Take a look around your property.
If you see any of the following warning signs call for an
inspection.
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FOGGED WINDOW |
STAINS ON WINDOW SILL |
STAINS ON WINDOW CASE |
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STAINS ON EAVES |
STAINS AT ROOF LINE |
STAINS ON STUCCO |
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STAINS IN TILE GROUT |
DUST IN HVAC VENTS |
STAINS UNDER CARPET |
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DISCOLORED WALLPAPER |
STAINS BEHIND WALLPAPER |
STAINS BEHIND WALLPAPER |
In
addition to visual observations, properties
with indoor mold problems may display one or more of
the following:
1. High Humidity - A relative humidity level of
greater than 50% promotes the growth of mold and other
fungi.
2. Water/Pipe Leaks - Many mold problems originate
from water and pipe leaks since they are often undetected
for days, months, or even years if minor enough.
3. Flooding - Mold problems are very common after
flooding. It usually requires several days or weeks to fully
dry out a structure, giving colonies of black mold more than
adequate time to grow.
4. Mildew or Musty Odors - Odors can often be the
first or only sign of a potential mold problem. In some
cases, moldy smells will only be evident when the air
conditioning or heat is turned on, indicating growth within
the HVAC system.
5. Increased Allergy or Respiratory Symptoms -
Suffering allergic reactions in your home or building could
be due to the presence of high levels of mold, especially if
other signs are also present.
6. Signs of Toxic Poisoning - Toxic black mold and
other fungi produce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Exposure to high levels of VOCs may irritate the mucous
membranes and the central nervous system leading to symptoms
of headaches, decreased attention span, difficulty in
concentration, and dizziness.
7. Leaky Roof - Like other types of water leaks,
water intrusion through the roof is difficult to find until
it is too late. If you suspect a leaky roof, check in the
attic for signs of water damage or mold growth.
8. Use of Humidifiers without Relative Humidity Control -
Using humidifiers can easily raise the moisture level in the
air to the point where mold is able to grow at a rapid rate.
When using a humidifier, the key is to regulate the relative
humidity level, to ensure it stays within 55-60% RH.
9. Damp Basements or Crawl Spaces - Basements and
crawl spaces tend to receive less ventilation (especially
crawl spaces), and are more likely to be neglected than
other parts of the home, so mold can grow undeterred for a
longer period of time.
10. Condensation or Rusting - Condensation on or
around pipes, windows, or walls is a sign of a leak or high
humidity. Rusting on pipes in particular, and anything else
metal, is also a sign of a high humidity problem or nearby
leak.
11. Lots of House Plants - House plants require
consistent watering, which increases moisture levels inside.
12. Discoloration of Walls (Water Stains) - Yellowish
stains on walls and ceilings are a sign of excessive
moisture. You may also notice places where the paint is
coming off due to moisture, where drywall is "bowing" out,
or where nail heads are rusting through.
13. Cracked, Peeling Paint - This usually means that
there is moisture build up behind the paint. By the time the
paint shows these signs, the moisture has often had an
opportunity to spawn the growth of mold within the wall.
14. Blocked Gutters - Gutters that are blocked can
cause water to seep into walls through the roof and can
cause water to collect at the base of the foundation.
15. Warped Wood - If wooden materials in your home
have been infiltrated by enough water to actually warp, then
sufficient levels of moisture are probably present to
accelerate mold growth.
16. Black Growth in Bathroom Tiles - Tile grout is
porous and will allow water penetration, and mold growth
behind the tiles themselves. In addition, dirt and other
grime (favorite foods of mold) are easily trapped in the
grout - an ideal environment for mold to thrive.
17. Loosening or Bubbling of Drywall Tape - This is a
sure sign that moisture has infiltrated the wall.
18. Visible Biological/Mold Growth - This may seem
like an obvious sign, but many people do not take a little
visible mold growth very seriously. However, this can be an
indication of a much larger mold growth in less visible
places.
19. Clothes Dryers and Other Appliances Not Vented
Outdoors - If the steam from these types of appliances
is vented inside, then this significant amount of additional
moisture creates a great environment for mold to flourish.
20. Poor Ventilation - If the air pressure in your
home is "negative", meaning the air pressure outside is
greater than it is inside, then it will force moisture and
contaminates back into the home. If the air pressure is well
into the "positive" side, then it can cause moisture to be
forced into walls. The air pressure in your home should be
slightly positive or at least balanced.
21. Presence of Wet Materials Indoors - This can
include rags, steam from cooking, indoor clothes lines,
carpet, or furniture. If these or other items are damp for
extended periods of time, then the moisture level can be
high enough to accommodate mold growth. |
MOLD
WARNING SIGNS