Whether you’ve recently bought your new house or have owned a property for a while, you’d know that maintaining good indoor air quality is one of your core responsibilities. It helps create a comfortable and healthy working or living environment for everyone inside the building. A well-ventilated area can also increase one’s productivity. 

Besides the pesky dust and dander, you should also be vigilant about mold. These pesky organisms can affect your health and your indoor air quality. They can also be offputting for most homebuyers. While a deep clean could help, it can be tricky to find mold because it usually grows in hidden areas because of water damage. 

This article will differentiate mold and mildew, what encourages these organisms to grow, and signs to call a mold remediation company. 

What’s the Difference Between Mold and Mildew?

Contrary to popular belief, mildew is a mold species, not a separate entity. It grows on the surface and can be easier to remove than burrowing mold. However, you should still take these organisms seriously and immediately call a professional mold remediation company because some types of mildew can create toxic mycotoxins. 

What Causes Mold Growth?

Mold needs four ingredients to thrive: mold spores, suitable temperature, organic material, and moisture. While controlling all factors can be tricky, limiting condensation is the best way to remove or prevent mold growth. Mold can grow in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, poorly-ventilated rooms, and crawl spaces. They can also thrive in humid and damp areas within walls and pipes. 

7 Warning Signs of Mold Growth

After differentiating mold and mildew and the root cause of these harmful spores’ growth, here are seven signs to call a professional mold remediation company. 

1. Musty Smells

Sometimes, we can smell mold before seeing it. The musty odor associated with these spores occurs because of a microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC), a gaseous substance that gives off the smell. Other people call it “mold farts,” indicating that these organisms are growing in a wet area in the house. 

2. Funky Tastes 

It may sound unusual, but your favorite drink could indicate if there’s mold present. Appliances usually harbor microbes because of the water and organic materials they consume. So if you taste something strange in your coffee maker or blender, it indicates that it may have mold or mildew growing inside. 

3. Physical or Medical Symptoms 

Mold can cause allergic reactions and infections and worsen asthma symptoms. You can reduce the risk of these spores by letting a professional analyze your home’s air quality and use high-efficiency air filters.  

4. Moisture on Walls and Windows

Water on walls and windows can lead to mold growth. These spores can appear in various colors and textures and are usually rampant in attics, basements, crawlspaces, and closets. You can prevent their unwanted growth by regularly checking for signs of mold and monitoring humidity levels. 

5. Leaks 

Minor leaks can cause mold growth if you don’t address these issues immediately because the water can soak into cabinets or flooring, causing moisture buildup. Regularly check these areas and immediately address the problems if you notice any dampness. 

6. Stains 

Besides being unsightly, water stains, rust, and black surface spots indicate high moisture levels and potential mold growth. Don’t cover the water damage with paint because it’s not a complete solution.

7. Bubbling or Peeling Paint 

While bubbling or peeling paint can indicate poor preparation or old paint, it can also mean moisture penetration in the wall assembly. You must also remember that bubbling on the baseboard could indicate hidden mold in the wall cavity.

Final Word 

Besides being unsightly, mold spores can damage your home and health, especially if you’re immunocompromised or have a sensitive respiratory system. You can ensure everyone breathes high-quality air by controlling moisture, keeping a clean house, and hiring a professional mold remediation company. 

If your home needs a professional mold remediation company in West Palm Beach, contact Titan Restoration Construction! Our experts are ready to help restore your house’s best condition and indoor air quality. Contact us now!