Mold is Dangerous: 7 Mold Tips You Need To Know
What is Mold?
Mold is considered to be an extremely small, dangerous element that belongs to the family of fungi. It can thrive on almost any surface especially cellulose-based objects. Molds are present almost everywhere (8 Most Common Places to Look for Mold). Though they maybe harmful at times, molds are considered a big part of the ecological balance in the community; they play a major role in breaking down organic substances in the environment.
According to some recent studies, approximately 50 percent of homes are inflicted with unknown moisture dilemmas. And as we all know molds thrive best in moist places.
And to a large extent, all indoor mold growth is potentially harmful and should be removed promptly, no matter what types of mold are present or whether they can produce toxins. Awareness and sanitation should be observed to prevent the spread of molds in your homes.
Here are 7 ways to detect if your home has dangerous molds :
- Launch a search operation
Check whether there is a visible signs of mold growth in your home. Molds are characterized by its cotton-like features that may appear in colors such as gray, white, black, or green. Black mold (A Definitive Guide to Black Mold) can be especially dangerous so be sure to watch for any signs of this type of growth. They also bear a resemblance to furry materials that give the impression of stains or yellowing stuff. Usually they can be found from the outside of construction materials or home furniture.
- Use your sense of smell
Whenever you smell some mold odors, begin your search immediately. But you also have to remember that even if your home has no moldy smell it doesn’t mean that you’re already free from its threat. Be sharp-eyed because some fragrance-free molds are still poisonous. Most of these species types grow in canals and in-between panels or dividing walls.
- Is basement flooding one of your indoor problems?
If yes, then there is a large probability that your house is filled with some dangerous molds. Rummage around for some indications of extra mustiness or water damage (How to Remove Mold After Water Damage). Also check if there are water discolorations on walls and ceilings. Remember excess amount of moisture is the major culprit for mold exposure.
- Windows mist over during winter
Winter season is characterized by coldness and generally when it’s cold, there is an excess in moisture. This excess amount of humidity in the environment can cause fungal growth which culminates the most in damp areas. If this so happen, it is best to take precautionary measures to identify if there is really the presence of mold in the area. A house that is contaminated with fungi is more susceptible to further health issues.
- Use home mold test kits
Mold testing is seldom used to find out any dangerous threats of molds. These do-it-yourself test kits are designed to track down the presence of harmful molds that can trigger serious health problems. Most of these testing devices are user-friendly and can provide reliable results in that instant. However, most health experts do not recommend testing for mold. They believe it is more reliable and practical to have visual inspections of molds in your homes.
- Molds that are hidden
Most experts agree that the most perilous mold is the one that is unseen. This type of molds can swell up frenziedly for we have no idea where they are. But in most cases, hidden molds can be discerned not by the naked eye but by its stale odor or by frequent clearing of the throat.
- Ask a Certified Mold Inspector
In instances wherein you cannot really detect of there are molds inside your house, you can ask the assistance of licensed mold inspectors. They have the proper know-how in pinpointing the exact location of undetected mold problems.
All in all, the key to total prevention of the threats caused by mold problems is utmost awareness of the problem. Be vigilant with your surroundings for any sign of mold growth. Early prevention is the best solution to all the hazards set off by this microorganism.
8 Most Common Places to Look for Mold
- Basements or cellars that have been flooded
- Underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks
- Underneath or behind refrigerators
- Behind walls that also house plumbing
- Stacks of damp or wet newspaper or cardboard boxes
- Around air-conditioning units
- Wallboard or around windows that leak
- Under carpeting that may have become wet