How Can I Tell if My Home Has Mold?

Mold is a strange substance to have in a home. While it is rarely damaging to the structure of your home as a whole, it can damage organic materials like textiles, drywall, and decorations. Likewise, mold can be damaging to your health and wellbeing if you are exposed to certain species of mold over time. Black mold is particularly dangerous and can cause side effects that range from rashes and infections to fainting and seizures. That’s why learning to spot it can be a vital skill.

There are two main ways you can spot mold in your home: through sight, or through smell. Mold formations are generally very noticeable, but they also tend to form in dark, secluded areas where they are able to thrive without much interference. Mold formations cause changes in color and texture when they form, and they can be found on all kinds of surfaces in a home. They are more likely to form around appliances that are connected to your plumbing system, however, or in rooms that frequently see steam and condensation.

If you do not see mold formations, you may smell them. Mold can produce a unique, musty smell that is slightly sweet and dry. This smell will be strongest near large mold formations, and can produce reactions that are similar to those experienced by people with hay fever or other seasonal allergies. If you notice this kind of smell around your home, you should check some of the more hidden areas around your home for visible mold formations. If you find any, it’s best to stay away from the area and call in a professional who can help.