Mold can pose a concealed hazard to your health as well as the structure of your home. While a little patch of mold on the shower tile is simple to find and treat, hidden growth behind walls or beneath floors can lie undetected for months. Knowing when to contact professionals for mold testing can help you detect problems early and save costly damage.
Here are a few signs that indicate it is time to schedule mold testing for your home.
- You notice persistent musty odors. Even if you can’t see it, a lingering musty or earthy odor is usually the first sign of mold. If cleaning and ventilation do not eliminate the stench, it is time to schedule mold testing to get an idea of what is truly going on.
- You see discoloration or water damage. Water stains, bubbling paint, and warped drywall are all signs of potential mold growth. Mold thrives in moist conditions, so any evidence of leaks or condensation, particularly in basements, bathrooms, or around windows, requires testing.
- You experience unexplained health symptoms. Mold may be to blame if you or your family members experience symptoms such as congestion, coughing, headaches, or skin irritation that seem to dissipate when you leave the house. Children, the elderly, and those with asthma are especially vulnerable.
- Your home flooded or had a major water leak. Even after a flooded area has been dried, moisture might remain behind walls or flooring. Mold testing can verify that your cleanup efforts were successful.
- You are buying or selling a home. Mold testing can help buyers avoid hidden issues and give sellers a chance to solve the issue before listing the home for sale.