Molds are an unsightly nuisance and invaders that thrive in damp, poorly ventilated spaces. Their spores are virtually everywhere, floating through the air unseen. And when they land in moist areas, they quickly settle in, spreading faster than you’d think.

Of course, you don’t want mold to take up residence in your home. That said, it’s best not to wait around. Dealing with it quickly will save you headaches down the road.

Here are some clear signs that it might be time to call a mold removal service to get the problem under control.

1. Persistent Musty Odors

Your nose knows best when it comes to mold detection. Musty, damp odors can be telltale signs of hidden mold growth, revealing problems lurking beyond surface appearances. For instance, you might have noticed that funky odor in your basement that room fresheners just can’t mask. Perhaps your bathroom has developed an odd, earthy scent despite regular cleaning.

Some substances produced by mold have lingering smells and easily evaporate into the air. These are called microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). Such odors usually mean mold has made itself comfortable living behind your walls and underneath your floors. (1)

That said, calling in a mold removal company like Emrick Services or others in your area is your best bet for tackling the problem at its source. They’ve got the know-how and advanced tools to track down hidden fungus colonies. Their team will do a full inspection, checking all the sneaky spots mold likes to settle into.

Image Source

2. Discolored Patches on Walls or Ceilings

Not all mold looks the same. Some might appear black or dark green, while others might show up as white or yellow. If there’s any discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors that doesn’t wipe away easily, that’s usually a red flag worth checking out.

Mold often begins as specks that can be mistaken for dirt or minor stains. But these patches can spread and darken over time, becoming more prominent and difficult to clean. Many people attempt to scrub off these spots, but without professional intervention, mold is likely to grow back. Discolored areas are usually a clear indication that mold removal services are needed.

3. Unexplained Health Symptoms Indoors

Mold isn’t good for health at all. In fact, a report says that nearly 50% of homes in the U.S. have this type of fungus. If your home is one of them, it could put you and your family’s health at risk. (2)

Take black mold, for example. Exposure to this fungus can trigger a range of health issues, especially for those with chronic allergies or weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy noses, itchy or watery eyes, and skin irritations. But the impact doesn’t stop there. It can also exacerbate respiratory problems, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. (3)

For your peace of mind, it’s wise to hire mold remediation services. They’re the right people for the job. Their goal is to restore your home’s air quality and ensure a healthier living environment for everyone.

4. Peeling Wallpaper or Bubbling Paint

Keep an eye on areas where paint might be peeling, bubbling, or cracking unexpectedly. While it might seem like an “expired coating,” it could also be a subtle hint of hidden mold.

If these signs are left unchecked, moisture buildup can encourage mold growth and, over time, may also affect your home’s structure. For one, when water seeps into walls, it can gradually weaken materials like wooden framing and drywall, which could lead to minor deterioration. So, addressing these issues early can help maintain a safe and stable home environment.

5. Recent Water Damage or Flooding

Water problems and mold go hand in hand. That burst pipe from last month, for instance, or the heavy rains that flooded your basement create perfect conditions for mold growth. Even small leaks under sinks or behind washing machines can also trigger mold problems within days.

Believe it or not, mold can develop as quickly as 24 to 48 hours after moisture exposure. What makes it tricky is that even when the water dries up, mold can keep growing inside walls or under floors.

If you’ve had a recent leak or flood, professional mold inspection and removal might be necessary to prevent an outbreak.

6. High Indoor Humidity Levels

Sticky, humid air indoors isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s also a prime condition for mold to thrive. When humidity levels consistently exceed 60% indoors, it creates an environment where mold spores can easily settle and grow. (4)

You’ll probably notice condensation on windows, mirrors, or even walls—signs that the air holds a lot of moisture that has nowhere to go. This can make your home feel stuffy and uncomfortable.

This is where a mold remediation company can step in to help. Assessing moisture is a vital part of their inspection process. With specialized tools, they can measure your home’s humidity and detect mold in areas you may not be able to see.

Takeaway

Mold infestation rarely improves on its own. Small issues can even explode into major headaches faster than most people realize. So, to mitigate these risks, don’t hesitate to call professional mold removal services. They bring expertise, proper equipment, and thorough solutions to the table. They don’t just clean visible mold—they hunt down hidden growth, identify moisture sources, and help prevent future problems.

References: 

1. “What does mold smell like?”, Source: https://www.epa.gov/mold/what-does-mold-smell
2. “Is Your Home a Health Risk? Why Mold May Be Lurking in Your Home”, Source: https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/is-your-home-a-health-risk-why-mold-may-be-lurking-in-your-home
3. “Can Black Mold Kill You?”, Source: https://www.webmd.com/lung/can-black-mold-kill-you
4. “A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home”, Source: https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-home

Feature Image Source