The first step to any successful mold remediation project is to conduct a comprehensive mold inspection. However, while this may seem like a no-brainer, no one wants to schedule and pay for a mold inspection if there is not a problem to begin with, leaving many home and business owners hesitant to make the call until things have already gotten out of hand.
If you suspect mold growth in your home or business, pushing off doing a mold inspection can lead to tons of costly issues, including extensive property damage and even health problems, making knowing when the best time to schedule your mold inspection is of dire importance. So, when is the best time of year to schedule a mold inspection?
Well, mold thrives in warm, humid, and damp conditions, so generally, the best time of year to get an inspection is anytime from the spring through the fall. This time of year generally produces the most ideal conditions for mold to grow, leaving homes and commercial buildings at their most vulnerable to mold infestation.
That being said, the time of year is not nearly the most important aspect when it comes to deciding when to schedule a mold inspection, and there are plenty of other signs that you should look out for. So, what are the most common signs that you should schedule a mold inspection, and where should you most actively look for it?
What Are The Most Common Signs That You May Have a Mold Problem?
Unless you are a mold expert yourself, you are probably unaware of many of the early signs of mold growth, but by knowing just a few of the common warning signs, you will be much better prepared to catch the problem and schedule an inspection early. Here are a few of the most common signs that you should look out for.
Musty Smell
While there are plenty of visual signs to look out for, most people tend to notice the unpleasant, musty odor that mold produces first. Mold often begins growing in out-of-reach places hidden from normal view, making it difficult to identify early on visually, but if you notice something that smells like an old wet towel every time you walk into your bathroom, there is no doubt that mold is to blame.
Water Stains and Warping
Water stains and paint warping are other signs to look out for. Mold needs moisture to grow and spread, and if water is collecting somewhere that it should not be, there is a good chance that mold will start to grow there.
Stains and warping like this are often caused by small leaks either from loose or broken pipes or the building’s roof, and while you may not be able to see the mold directly, this water damage presents the perfect opportunity for mold to thrive.
Visual Mold Growth
While you will probably notice the other signs before you ever actually see the mold itself, knowing what mold looks like can still help you catch the problem if you have not already. Mold generally looks fuzzy and slimy and comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, green, and even orange, so if you notice discolored, wet, and fuzzy stains that seem to get bigger with time, you most definitely have a mold problem that needs to be addressed.
Negative Health Symptoms
Extended exposure to mold comes with a variety of health risks that will continue to get worse with time. These health issues generally include a number of respiratory problems as well as skin and eye irritation.
While you will most likely catch some of the other signs before you ever start experiencing these health issues, if you are starting to feel sick with no explanation, it could be due to a hidden mold problem that needs to be removed.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Mold and Where Does it Like to Grow?
If you are already noticing the symptoms of mold growth, that means that the problem has already started, but knowing the common causes and places where mold likes to grow can allow home and business owners to get ahead of the problem before it even starts.
In general, some of the most common causes of mold are water intrusion, leaks, drainage issues, and poor ventilation, so part of an indoor environment that has these issues has the potential to grow mold. However, basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens are by far the most common culprits.
INX Indoor Air Quality: Professional Mold Testing and Mold Inspection West Chester, PA
Do you suspect that your West Chester home or business has a mold problem? Then, you should call INX Indoor Air Quality and schedule your mold inspection as soon as possible.
Here at INX Indoor Air Quality, we specialize in conducting comprehensive mold inspections that can help you catch your mold issues early and save your property from further damage. Our team of certified professionals are experts in their field and employ multiple surface and environmental testing methods and visual inspection techniques that ensure even the smallest amount of mold spores will be identified.
When it comes to mold, you cannot afford to wait. So, call INX Indoor Air Quality and schedule your inspection today.
Efficient and Effective Mold Remediation That Chester County Can Count On
The inspection is just the first step in the process, and once a problem is identified, it is essential to start the mold removal process as soon as possible. Luckily, we do not just stop at inspections, and as soon as your inspection is done, we will start coming up with a plan to get rid of your mold issues for good.
Our team has completed countless successful mold remediation projects all over the Chester County area and is well-equipped with specialized equipment like air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums that allow us to remove mold in an efficient, timely, and cost-effective manner.
So, do not let your mold problem get out of hand. Contact INX and take the first step towards getting rid of your mold problems today!
Contact INX Indoor Air Quality Today
Are you ready to schedule your mold inspection? Give us a call. Our friendly team is always here and ready to schedule an inspection as soon as it is most convenient for you. We will even offer you a free estimate for your project as soon as we are done. So do not push off dealing with your mold problems any longer. Call INX Indoor Air Quality today!