How Serious Is Mold in the Home?

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Delray Beach, FL bathroom

Many Delray Beach, FL, homeowners will, at some time or another, encounter mold in their homes. This is particularly true in buildings that suffered water damage, even if that damage occurred years earlier. Unfortunately, a small moisture problem can cause a wide-scale mold cleanup issue. The presence of black mold can be a particular cause for concern.

Why Is Mold So Persistent?

Long after moisture problems have been resolved, black mold will remain until professionals remove it.

Spores are microscopic organisms that float easily through the air.
Mold naturally exists in most environments.
Colonies thrive in damp, musty areas, such as basements and bathrooms.

Once a home has been affected by flooding or leaking pipes, it's easy for mold spores to attack organic and inorganic surfaces. As the colony attacks these surfaces, digestive enzymes dissolve the materials causing them to break down and decompose.

How Does Mold Show Up in Houses?
Once homeowners notice the presence of mold, they may take steps to control the initial source of moisture. These sources may include a leaky faucet, drainage backups, or damage to the roof or foundation. However, mold may also begin to develop in a kitchen that steams up when water boils or in a bathroom where hot showers are a common occurrence. Condensation may form on the inside of a window when it's cold outside and warm inside. Homeowners may not recognize these sources of mold as problematic until real damage has taken place.

Why Is It Important To Hire Professionals?
Mold's ability to thrive is one of the main reasons it's so important to hire mold cleanup and restoration professionals. Every trace and spore must be removed, or new growth will occur. Chlorine-based products may treat the symptoms caused by a mold colony, but these products aren't sufficient for removing the problem. Professionals have access to personal protective equipment and non-toxic cleaners.
Whether there's an obvious black mold problem or homeowners have recently noticed a musty smell from the attic, it's important to take quick action. Professionals can determine the extent of the growth and locate the source of moisture before taking steps to correct the issue.