Mold thrives in the presence of moisture and usually spreads in crawl spaces; this makes mold difficult to spot.

When looking for mold in your home or office, you are trying to spot the areas with surplus moisture. There are different signs of mold growth that are always useful irrespective of whether it’s a commercial or residential dwelling.

Mold can have a detrimental effect on the property and its inhabitants, and hence it is recommended to eradicate mold as soon as identified.

Knowing where to look for mold can help you quickly identify the concern and move towards the next step, i.e., mold remediation or removal, without wasting time.

This post features areas where you are more likely to find mold contamination in a commercial or residential setting.

Beneath Wallpaper and Drywall

The space between the wall and the inside of wallpaper and drywall is an excellent spot for mold growth.

When wallpaper is installed, moisture gets trapped between the wall’s exterior and the paper on most occasions. The temperature differences between the exterior, warm outdoor air, and the cool air indoors can trigger condensation. Condensation provides the perfect setting for mold growth.

Always keep an eye for any spots or discolorations on your wallpaper or drywall. A specialist construction contractor will ensure that the wall is coated with mold inhibiting paint before installing wallpapers.

On Plumbing and Ductwork

Plumbing and ductwork in homes and offices are mostly insulated to support the aesthetics and protect the system from any potential damage.

Plumbing and ductwork are always linked to moisture, and how these systems are often insulated provides the perfect environment for mold growth.

Insulating the plumbing and the ducts is an ideal means to contain mold growth; however, if the insulation is not properly handled or fails, it can be a breeding ground for mold.

Around Water Boilers and Heaters

Boilers and heaters have drain ducts that help remove excess moisture and condensation that builds up when it’s operational.

However, continuous use can cause these equipment types to be faulty, leading to leaks. These leaks are easily missed in a bathroom setting but at the same time encourage mold growth.

Ensure to inspect and de-clog the ducts of water heaters and boilers in your home or office and use a dehumidifier or even an exhaust fan to regulate moisture levels.

Indoor Plants

Even though they add to the aesthetics and air purification, indoor plants can be a risky candidate if not looked at properly.

Overwatering your indoor potted plants can lead to mold growth. Indoor plants require water and lack access to direct sunlight, and hence when you overwater them, the plant root rots quickly and starts supporting mold growth both on the soil and the plant itself.

The soil you select for your indoor plants can also be contaminated beforehand, and the moisture you offer later while gardening can help form a mold colony.

Air conditioning and heating ducts

The temperature difference between the air ducts within these appliances and the outside environment often forms moisture.

Water droplets formed inside air conditioning and heating ducts provide the most conducive environment for mold growth. The colony gets all the nutrients it needs in the form of dust, dead skin cells, and pollen.

Since these appliances play a pivotal role in regulating temperature at your home or office and are often connected to all the rooms, it is critical to ensure that they are often inspected for mold growth and filter replacement.

In the garage

Mostly in-home settings, rainwater from your car, or any potential leaks can lead to mold growth in your garage. Most people use the garage as a mini storage space that will likely hold several things ranging from cardboard boxes to clothes.

With sufficient moisture content and nutrients in cellulose from objects stored such as cardboard boxes, mold can thrive easily and quickly.

Ventilating your garage and trying to introduce sunlight whenever possible can help prevent mold in the garage.

Painting your garage with mold and mildew-resistant paint is another smart way to prevent mold growth.

Mold growth in-home or office settings is a major headache and something that people overlook. Mold can thrive unseen and unheard and can affect your health without you even realizing it. You might only realize when the symptoms escalate to a certain point that it starts disrupting your normal life.

Do not wait for things to get worse; make sure that you run a mold inspection at regular intervals with the help of a mold specialist.