One of the first indicators that a home has an infestation of mold and mildew is the detection of the smell associated with their presence. The single greatest mistake a homeowner can make is to ignore the smell, and just hope it will go away on its own. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the smell of mold and eliminate the dangers associated with it, which will ensure a home not only smells pleasant but is free from airborne mold spores.
The greatest contributing factor for any mold or mildew activity is water, as it will help feed the growth and allow it to spread rapidly. The underground location of basements makes them a breeding ground for mold and mildew, due in part to the excess moisture that is present in the air. A dehumidifier can remove the excess moisture, which can help to reduce the odor associated with mold and mildew and ensure the air is clean and healthy to breathe. More extreme infestations may require the use of a commercial dehumidifier, which will also use heat to make sure that the air in a space is dry.
Water damage in your home can be stressful, especially if you can’t spot the source of the mess. How do you know your house is water damaged? Usually, unpleasant odors emanate from stagnating water somewhere in your house. Stains on walls and ceilings are other indicators of water damage.
In extreme cases, visible signs of mold growth indicate excess moisture penetration on walls, floors, and ceilings. On walls affected by water, paint peels off as a result of free water inside the walls. Here are seven possible causes of water damage your home.
Finding mold in moist areas of your home can be an unsettling experience. The presence of mold essentially means that water accumulated behind a wall or on a surface and was never dried out properly. This is why it’s important to have proper air circulation channels in rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas, where lots of water is being used every day.
Not all mold is toxic to humans, however, and some of it can be eliminated yourself. Other types require the services of a professional, especially if the mold has spread. What follows is a summary of the different types of mold and places where it tends to build up.