How To Identify and Treat Mold Problems

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold

Is a musky smell causing you to worry? Are those dark-colored spots evidence of black mold? Identifying mold is the first step in diagnosing a problem, but sometimes it can be tricky to know exactly what you are dealing with. It is important for every property owner to understand what mold looks like and what to do if they discover the fungi.

Looking for Mold

Mold needs moisture to thrive, meaning it tends to appear in areas where there is excess water. Common locations for fungus growth may include:

• Bathroom showers and sinks
• Kitchen sinks
• Air conditioning or HVAC components
• Damp basements
• Pipes that experience condensation
  
  

All of these places are often relatively accessible and should be fairly simple to check for mold. Look for spots that appear black, gray, green, yellow, brown or white, as these are colors found on various types of indoor fungus.

The worst kind of structural mold is black mold, also known as Stachybotrys chartarum. It has a fuzzy, slimy texture and produces a distinctive musty odor. The fungus prefers to grow in heavily moist areas, so you may find it in places that are prone to flooding or constant water leaks.

Trust the Professionals

While visible mold is an easy way to identify a problem, oftentimes hidden mold can grow behind walls, under floorboards or within ceilings and ductwork. A moisture-laden air conditioning duct or a pipe leak behind the wall is an ideal breeding ground for many types of fungi, including black mold. Thus, you should call an experienced IEP to determine exactly where the problem is located in the building. An IEP will use specialized equipment to detect any sources of mold, even those that are not readily apparent. Once all the fungus within your property has been identified, you can take steps toward remediation.

When it comes to mold cleanup services in Plumsteadville, PA, qualified mold remediation specialists are always available to help. Whether you are dealing with signs of water damage, visible fungus, or a suspicious smell, contact a reputable professional to help you identify and treat the problem at its root.