Awareness has been increasing in recent years about the health dangers posed by household mold. At the first sign of a developing problem, most people know to call a Mold Damage Restoration Service to address it. What many residents still do not realize, however, is that visible signs will not necessarily be present prior to the development of a serious mold problem. Below are a few early warning signs that may appear prior to visibly detectable mold.
Noticeable Musty Odors
The most common tell-tale sign of a worsening mold problem is not visible, but olfactory. Even a small amount of this substance gives off a musty, earthy odor. If anyone in the household begins to notice strange and persistent smells, it’s time to take action. Often, the source of the smell can be tracked down to visible mold growth in a less-trafficked area of the home. If there is uncertainty as to whether or not mold growth is present, it’s usually better to call in the professionals than try to find the source without help. Mold reproduces by spreading spores, so there is a very good chance that untrained homeowners will end up inhaling them in the process of tracking down the problem.
Water Damage or Excess Moisture
Where there is standing water in dark places, there is likely at least the beginning of a mold problem. Since it can grow in carpets, ceilings, woodwork, and behind walls, the mold itself won’t always be visible. Luckily, water damage is typically fairly obvious. Look for discoloration and watermarks on walls and ceilings, leaks, condensation on windows and mirrors, and standing water in basements or other less-trafficked areas of the home. It’s especially important to check around the outside walls and inspect any closed spaces such as crawl spaces, attics, and basement bulkheads.
If water damage is present, it will need to be addressed regardless of whether or not it has led to mold growth. Companies like Black Label Restoration specialize in water damage remediation in addition to providing a valuable Mold Damage Restoration Service. It’s best to contract a company like this that can both identify and work to fix both the problem and its consequences.