Mold in the home is a problem for both the house’s condition and the safety of your living environment. It is not always easy to identify and some of the signs are not obvious. When you know what to look out for, you’ll be more likely to catch mold in the home early before it spreads.
Peeling or Bubbling Paint
You may not associate this sign with mold growth at first thought, but bubbling or peeling paint is usually caused by moisture. A leak behind a wall is often hard to detect, and abnormalities with the paint may be the only sign that something is wrong. Don’t take it lightly if you notice peeling or bubbling paint on your walls.
Musty Smells are Signs of Mold in the Home
It’s common to notice the smell of mold before seeing any visible signs. Mold has a distinctive odor, like wet socks or rotting wood. If you ever catch a whiff of this smell in your home, try to follow it to its source. If you cannot locate the cause, hire a professional.
Allergy Symptoms Flare Up at Home
If you or a family member sees an increase in sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, itching, or respiratory trouble while at home, but it eases up upon leaving the house, this is a sign of mold. Mold spores float through the air and are irritating to the eyes, nose, and lungs. If these symptoms flare up when inside the house, it is likely due to a mold problem.
Damp Basement or Crawlspace
Areas of dampness around the basement or crawlspace and mold usually go hand in hand. The lowest level of the house is a common space for mold to grow because it tends to be more prone to moisture than other areas. Pay attention to damp floors and condensation. Waterproof the basement and put down a vapor barrier in the crawlspace to keep it dry.
Leaks Lead to Mold in the Home
Water leaks, whether they come from the roof, plumbing, or through the foundation, generally result in mold growth if they are not caught and fixed quickly. Standing water creates the perfect conditions for mold to grow. Be proactive in checking for leaks and fix them promptly to prevent mold.
Phoenix Property Inspections offers inspections to San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties in California. Contact us to request an appointment.