How do you know if you need mold remediation? Mold spores are everywhere. There is no way to get rid of all molds, nor would you want to. It is a natural part of the ecosphere and serves an important purpose. Mold helps to break down biodegradable materials in the environment. Some species are also are used in food science and the pharmaceutical industry to produce various foods, beverages, and medications.

Unfortunately, some molds are hazardous to human health. When mold grows in a home, it can cause severe respiratory illnesses, as well as skin, eye, and nose irritation. Mold can also cause damage to your home’s structures, like drywall and wood. Mold remediation is the process of killing and removing mold from areas that have experienced a mold overgrowth. Learning the signs of a mold problem will help you understand if your home needs professional mold remediation.

Signs You May Need Mold Remediation

So, how do you know if your home contains harmful levels of mold? When you see black spots appearing on walls, ceilings or other areas of your home, it is a clear sign that there is an overgrowth of mold. However, mold could be growing inside the walls invisible to the naked eye. Mold build-up in air conditioning ducts also often goes unseen. As the AC unit blows, it contaminates your air with tiny mold spores circulating throughout your home day and night.

Water Intrusion Events

Moisture creates a perfect breeding ground for mold spores. A water intrusion event is a common cause of mold overgrowth. Overt flooding from an outdoor or indoor source will often bring on a mold problem within 72 hours of the water intrusion. When drywall, carpeting, upholstered furniture, and other porous materials become saturated with water, it takes a long time to dry out thoroughly. Mold likes to grow in damp, dark areas. That’s why basements and attics are particularly vulnerable to mold problems.

Some water intrusion problems are not as easy to detect. Leaking pipes inside the walls may go unnoticed for a long time. If the water collects behind tiled walls, for instance, you may never see the damage.

Odd Odors from an Unknown Source

If you get a whiff of something musty in the air inside your home, it is a good sign that there is a mold source nearby and you may need mold remediation. Again, air conditioning ducts could be the source. Also, check for water that has pooled around an AC unit, water heater, or under a sink.  These are all places that small leaks may occur and go unnoticed. Some species of mold do not give off odors, so mold could be present even if you do not smell anything unusual.

Stains and Discoloration of Walls and Ceiling Tiles

Even if you don’t see the tell-tale black spots of mold growth, more subtle hints may be popping up around your home. Yellow, brown or orange discoloration of ceiling tiles, walls, or in showers or bathtubs could be an indication that there is mold growth occurring. Not all mold species appear black. Just like you may have noticed on different types of food, some molds are white, gray, green, red, or brown. Depending on the organic substance that the mold has settled into, colors may vary.

Health Symptoms that May Indicate Mold Problems

One of the most critical yet unrecognized signs that you need mold remediation is the adverse effect that mold has on human health. Breathing mold spores can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• A sore throat
• Nasal & sinus congestion
• Sneezing
• Nosebleeds
• Watery eyes
• Chest tightness
• Difficulty breathing

Because these symptoms resemble the common cold, a mold problem may not be considered as the source. If you or your family members seem to catch colds often, a mold issue could be the real culprit. Inhalation of mold can even bring on asthma attacks for those who suffer from the condition.

Long-term mold exposure to toxic molds may cause including cancer, pneumonitis, neurotoxicity, and other serious illnesses.

What to Do if You Need Mold Remediation

If you recognize any of the above signs of mold overgrowth in your home or other structure, the best course of action is to call a mold remediation specialist. The SunCoast Mold Remediation pros will visit your home or office and give you a free consultation. We offer 24-hour Emergency mold remediation services and work with your insurance company to make the process as easy as possible for you.

The professionals at SunCoast offer mold inspection and testing, mold remediation, water extraction, and water damage repair. Don’t wait. Mold grows and spreads rapidly, so it is best to act quickly before your health and home suffers significant damage.  If you need mold remediation, call (561) 203-4911 in Palm Beach County or (954) 248-3343 in Broward County today.