Two factors make mold growth on or near the property dangerous. First, mold growth consumes the materials it is thriving on, causing irreversible damage. Second, mold releases minute spores and metabolites into the air that can irritate people’s eyes or cause a variety of diseases. These can lead to respiratory issues if inhaled. It is important to arrange a removal or cleanup strategy with the help of mold removal Arlington experts as soon as possible to avoid harm to both property and health.
What is Mold?
A mold is a form of fungus that develops in multicellular structures known as hyphae. Mold spores produced by these hyphae can be found both indoors and outdoors. Notwithstanding the fact that mold spores are present almost everywhere, moisture is essential for mold to grow and reproduce. In the aftermath of a water line leak or flood, mold can be especially prevalent in freezers and bathroom areas.
Factors That Cause Mold Growth
Mold growth can be caused by high levels of humidity and poor ventilation. This means that common household chores that produce excessive humidity, such as cooking, taking hot showers, and drying clothes inside the house, may all serve as or be the root cause of mold formation. Investing in a dehumidifier and enhancing ventilation are proactive ways to prevent the growth of mold in spaces that commonly deal with humid conditions or dampness.
Signs Of Mold Infestation
Before it manifests itself physically inside the building, mold usually first makes itself apparent through smell. The smell of mold can be described in a variety of ways, but it usually has a damp, musty, and stale scent. Also, this smell often leads to nose discomfort and sneezing. Other signs of a mold infestation can include the following:
- Separating wallpaper
- Dampness
- Walls with dark or colorful stains
- Soiled carpet
- Darkening of the grout between the tiles
- Symptoms of asthma, nose congestion, or sneezing
Becoming accustomed to smells can add more problems to the issue, and the detection of mold growth becomes difficult. Asking a friend or relative who doesn’t live on the property if they can smell anything strange can be helpful in this case. It is advisable to engage mold removal Arlington professionals to perform an inspection if such a smell is present so that action can be taken at a lower level of damage.
Popular Indoor Mold Growths and Their Places
- Acremonium: Grey mold that turns powdery, usually present in humidifiers, HVAC coils, drains, and drip pans.
- Alternaria: Dark velvety texture with “hairs,” usually present in shower stalls, bathtubs, and near sinks.
- Aspergillus: Mold with thick layers often found on wooden surfaces.
- Aureobasidium: Pink mold that turns dark brown, often found under carpets and behind wallpaper.
Conclusion
If the mold infestation reaches 10 square feet or more, a professional should be contacted to handle the removal. Large mold colonies need to be removed by using powerful chemicals, and building materials that have been infected must be disposed of. The public health departments in the area can offer guidance on mold testing and direct people to a professional mold removal Arlington service.