Hidden mold typically occurs behind, beneath, or within other areas in your home that aren’t in-your-face obvious. However, just because it’s hidden doesn’t mean it can’t be found. Here are the signs of a hidden mold infestation, why it’s dangerous, and the best places to start looking:
The main signs of a mold infestation
First thing’s first, the most common signs of a mold infestation include:
Recent Water Damage - Have you dealt with flooding in your home recently? That’s the number one cause of mold problems, hidden or not.
Plumbing Leak - Even if you’ve repaired the leak, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t already caused mold to grow.
Strange Musty Scent - Mold smells bad (musty and damp). If you don’t have any old gym socks lying around, mold may be the issue.
An increase in allergy symptoms - Are you or someone you live with having increased allergy symptoms? This, in conjunction with the other things listed above, can be a distinct sign of mold growth.
Hidden mold can be dangerous
Hidden mold can be dangerous because you don’t know where it is, how much there is, or what variety it is. These factors are important when it comes to determining how to remove it and what risk it poses to you before and during the process. The three main varieties of mold most commonly found in American homes are:
Aspergillus - You’re most likely to find this in your home. It appears as discolored blob shapes that can grow and develop. It’s also the type of mold most likely to cause allergic reactions.
Cladosporium - You’re most likely to find this in your bathroom. It looks flaky, peppered across any surface it’s found on. It’s nontoxic but can still cause mild allergy symptoms.
Stachybotrys Chartarum - Know as “black mold,” it is the most likely to cause health problems after prolonged exposure. It’s capable of releasing spores that help it spread as it feeds on organic compounds - something you definitely do not want to get into contact with.
Where to find hidden mold
There are certain “hidden” areas worth taking a look at any time you suspect a mold problem without an obvious source, including:
Underneath stacks of paper like newspaper, magazines, cardboard, or printer paper.
Behind or beneath your refrigerator.
Inside your HVAC system’s ducts.
Behind drywall, especially in areas that contain pipes connected to your plumbing.
Below sinks.
Behind or beneath any carpeting or drywall that has recently dealt with flooding.
If your home is mold free, but you still have other heating and cooling concerns, call 72 Degrees Comfort Company at 515-965-7272 or email us at office@72degrees.com.