It’s easy to tell there’s a mold problem when you’re seeing dark or furry spots on the ceilings and walls, but mold can hide in places you wouldn’t expect. Mold thrives in areas with excess moisture, and you may not always know where you have excess moisture until you have a mold problem. ServiceMaster of Baltimore has over 60 years of experience with mold remediation and restoration, so let us help you manage the mold with our 3 signs your home has hidden mold.
1. You Smell Something Musty or Stale
Have you ever walked into a room and instantly smelled something musty? Many homeowners notice this smell in their basement long before they can see visible mold, especially if there has been flooding in the past. You might also smell something musty or stale in an attic or a bathroom – anywhere there is excessive moisture.
When you notice this smell, look around the area for dark or furry spots on walls or ceilings. Also look for water stains, as this usually indicates a leak that could support mold growth. Once the underlying leak or moisture problem is resolved, ensure the mold is removed properly.
2. You’re Experiencing Allergy Symptoms Inside
Many people who don’t experience seasonal allergies will show signs of them in an area with mold. Symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, or wheezing with no clear cause may be from a mold problem. If they go away when you leave the home, call a professional or do an at-home mold testing kit to determine whether your symptoms could be mold-related.
The most common area for mold to grow is inside your HVAC system, which spreads the spores throughout the home. Moving air agitates the spores and allows them to spread to other surfaces and to your respiratory system. People with allergies can experience even worse symptoms in a mold-infested home, so finding the source and eliminating the mold is critical to good health.
3. Your Home is Very Humid
Mold thrives in dark, moist environments like attics, basements, closets, and bathrooms. For example, showering in a bathroom without an exhaust fan, a roof leak, or a slow leak in the basement can lead to condensation and excess moisture that does not quickly evaporate. Condensation can collect on ceilings or even absorb into drywall or wood, creating a breeding ground for mold spores.
A dehumidifier can help reduce the moisture content in the air, making it easier for additional water to evaporate. Some HVAC systems have a dehumidifier built-in, allowing you to monitor and set the indoor humidity level. If possible, it’s recommended to keep home humidity levels below 45%.
Residential Mold Remediation in Baltimore MD
ServiceMaster of Baltimore can inspect, test, and get rid of mold in your home to keep you and your family safe from its effects. We are certified by the IICRC in Applied Microbial Remediation and knowledgeable in the appropriate procedures, tools, and equipment to use to remove mold. Call us at 410-780-1700 or fill out our quick estimate form online to learn more.
