4 Things You Should Know About Mold

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage on a kitchen wall in Desert Uplands, AZ

4 Things You Should Know About Mold

Mold is a fungus that can grow in a variety of locations, including your home in Desert Uplands, AZ. If there has been water damage or high levels of humidity in your house, then it is possible you might have some black mold growing. The following is some helpful information about this pesky organism.

1. What Does Mold Look Like?
Mold can come in many colors, from black mold to green, and usually has a fuzzy appearance. Some varieties, however, may look a bit more slimy. Another common fungus you may find in your home is mildew. This is generally much easier to remove and can be distinguished from mold by its powdery appearance.

2. How Do You Know You Have an Infestation?
Sometimes, you can spot a mold growth easily, as it can cause discoloration on the surfaces of walls and other areas. If the fungus is growing in a more hidden location, such as behind walls and beneath flooring, it can be more difficult. In this case, the first sign might be a musty odor. You may need to have a professional inspection done to find it.

3. How Does It Spread?
Black mold travels via spores, which are not visible to the naked eye and can be found in most environments. When air circulates throughout your house, these spores can end up in multiple locations. Luckily, they are usually not a problem, until they have access to moisture.

4. How Can You Keep It From Coming Back?
After mold cleanup has been done, you will need to take some precautions to keep the fungus from returning. Have any water damage repaired as quickly as possible, and keep plumbing and pipes maintained to prevent leaks. A dehumidifier can remove moisture from the air.
If you suspect that there is mold growing in your house, you should have a mold remediation company inspect the building. They can locate any colonies and have the area thoroughly cleaned and sanitized without spreading the fungus further.