Whether you’ve just purchased your home or you’ve been living in it for a while, getting a home mold inspection should be a priority on your to-do list. Mold can grow anywhere from walls, clothes, and even prized possessions, so it’s essential to ensure you’ve done everything in your power to stop this from happening.

Not only is it a huge eyesore, but mold can also be incredibly dangerous for your health. There are over 30,000 types of mold that can have adverse effects on your health. Mold can be responsible for breathing problems, allergies, bronchitis, and more. These risks are especially pertinent if you’re already predisposed to mold-related illnesses such as asthma.

Mold can even cause a serious health problem known as aspergillosis in some cases, which can affect the lungs and nose, as well as cause coughing issues and unexpected weight loss.

Since there are many different types of mold out there, it’s important to get a home mold inspection so that you can be aware of which kind of mold is affecting your home and the methods to get rid of it. One of the major effects and causes of mold in houses is poor air quality.

Here’s what you should be aware of with cutting your risk of mold growth through air quality testing for mold:

HOW MOLD FORMS

When you have mold in the house, they produce spores that float around in the air. If your place is particularly warm and humid, your home is a prime location for mold spores to thrive. This is why air quality testing for mold and home mold inspection is so important: even if you can’t see the mold yet, it may be in the air, waiting to find a damp spot to grow!

Mold spores aren’t clearly visible to the naked eye and can enter the home through the air or by attaching themselves to objects or people. They are most likely to begin to grow into a mold in moist areas such as places where flooding has occurred in your home, condensed windows, and poorly circulated areas. So, just because you may not see any mold in your house doesn’t mean that there aren’t spores in your home.

One of the primary things a professional mold remediation company will do when conducting a home mold inspection is to perform air quality testing for mold. During the inspection, they can check for humidity levels in different parts of your home.  High humidity level readings usually indicate that mold is present or likely to thrive.

Through this inspection, you can be alerted to any invisible issues such as excessively humid areas and potential mold spores in the house. In addition, by getting this done, you can have the peace of mind that your home is mold free, or at least know what measures to take to keep it that way.

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FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE POOR AIR QUALITY

If you’re wondering whether air quality testing for mold is right for you, you may want to consider how good the air quality currently is in your house. Of course, there are many factors that determine the air quality of your home, but there are plenty of common issues which are picked up in a home mold inspection that you may want to know about.

One of the major factors which decrease air quality is poor ventilation. If you’ve noticed that your home has restricted airflow, then it may be a breeding spot for mold spores. This is because air movement can dry out the moisture in your home and thus remove the potential for mold growth.

Another factor that influences poor air quality and subsequent mold growth is a poorly maintained air conditioning unit. If the filters in your HVAC system have rarely or never been replaced, then chances are they could be failing to capture any mold spores, dust, or other harmful particles which could be influencing the humidity in your home.

If your home has an attic, then this should also be a cause for concern when it comes to poor air quality; the quality of the air determines the majority of your home’s air environment in the attic. In addition, if your attic has condensation build-up, or you have experienced damage to your roofing through leakages, then you may have mold, which will find its way into the rest of your home.

TAKE STEPS TO REDUCE HUMIDITY

To improve overall air quality within your home, you can take measures to reduce your home’s humidity. You can do this by investing in a dehumidifier, leaving windows open to let air circulate, and using extractor fans when cooking to remove any moisture.

It’s also an excellent idea to frequently clean your surfaces so that mold, mold spores, dust, or any particles can’t build up around the house. Also, you can ensure that you’re using mold-killing products in the bathroom, as this is the biggest culprit for mold growth!

It’s also important to make sure your home is maintained. For example, make sure your roof, gutters, and drains are all in good health to reduce the risk of any leakages which could bring unwarranted moisture into the home.

Once you have ensured all these things are tended to, if you still think you have a mold problem, a professional will be able to give you specific advice on how to deal with the mold issues once they have completed a home mold inspection.

WHEN SHOULD I INVEST IN A HOME MOLD INSPECTION?

If you’re concerned any of the above factors apply to your home, then getting a home mold inspection alongside air quality testing for mold will help you determine how big of an issue you have on your hands. However, these aren’t the solitary factors that should alert you to get a home mold inspection.

The first and most glaring reason to look into a home mold inspection is if you see mold.  Any green, blue, black, or white unidentified substances growing on your belongings or walls should ring the alarm bells and call for a home mold inspection, as the issue may not be restricted to the area where mold is visible.

If you’ve already dealt with mold problems in the past, it’s also a good idea to get a home mold inspection since there may be a reoccurring issue that a professional can spot and get sorted for you.

Finally, a home mold inspection is essential if you’ve just purchased a new home or are returning to a house that has been unoccupied for a while. With new homes, there are no ways to tell whether any damages or leaks have occurred previously, and unoccupied homes often have humidity build-ups, especially in warmer areas.

SCHEDULE A MOLD INSPECTION

Whether you have a large house that you can’t keep on top of or have just moved into your home, getting your air quality tested and mold inspected is a great idea to ensure the health of your home and its occupants. By investing in a home mold inspection, you can determine all the danger spots in your home and get to work on an action plan to get rid of mold once and for all from your home.

Dry Ease Mold Removal Services can provide you with a mold inspection, mold estimate, or mold remediation.

CLICK HERE FOR A MOLD INSPECTION

In many homes across New York, a hidden menace lurks, ready to cause havoc for residents. This menace is mold and can be found in many different places throughout the home. While mold may seem like something that’s only found in old, damp homes, the truth is that any home can be susceptible to black mold growth.

But before removing and treating mold, you need to know where to look for it. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common places for black mold growth.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungi that thrives in moist and humid environments. Mold spores are found both indoors and outdoors, and when they land on a wet or damp surface, they can start to grow. While mold is often associated with older homes, it can actually grow in many areas in all types of homes.

Mold can cause several problems for homeowners:

• Mold can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes. In some cases, mold can even cause asthma attacks.
• Mold growth can damage your home’s structure, causing rot and deterioration.
• Mold can be difficult to remove, and it often returns unless it’s been properly cleaned and treated.

So, where is mold most likely to grow? Let’s take a look at some of the most common places for mold growth.

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The Most Common Places for Black Mold Growth

Mold can be found in a number of different places. However, some areas are more susceptible to mold growth in homes throughout New York. These areas include:

The Basement or Crawlspace

A common place to find mold is in the basement or crawlspace. These areas are often damp and humid, which makes them ideal for mold. In addition, basements and crawlspaces are often poorly ventilated, which can further contribute to mold growth.

If you have a basement or crawlspace in your home, periodically inspect these areas. If you find mold, have it removed by a professional mold remediation company.

The Attic

The attic is another common place for mold. Like basements and crawlspaces, attics are often damp and humid due to poor ventilation. In addition, heat from the sun can cause attic temperatures to rise, further contributing to mold growth.

Another common reason for concern is when leaks occur in the roof. Water leaks into the attic can create the perfect conditions for the growth of mold. Be sure to have your roof regularly inspected to ensure there are no leaks and have any leaks fixed immediately.

The Kitchen

The kitchen is a prime area for mold to grow due to the presence of water and food. Black mold loves damp conditions, and kitchens often have a lot of moisture from cooking and dishwashing. Plus, if any of the plumbing isn’t working correctly or you have a leak, this can lead to mold issues.

Where should you look for mold in the kitchen? Check under the sink, around the dishwasher, and in any other area with a water source. Also be sure to keep an eye out for peeling paint or wallpaper, as this can be a sign of a mold.

The Bathroom

The bathroom is one of the most common places where mold can be found.  Since bathrooms are used for showering and bathing, there tends to be moisture and condensation in the air. If you don’t ventilate the room properly, mold can start to grow on your bathroom walls, ceiling, tile, grout, and caulk surfaces.

Be sure to check under the sink, around the toilet, and in any other area where there is a water source when looking for mold in the bathroom. If you notice a mildew smell, it’s a good indication that mold is present.

Other Spots Mold Can Hide

While these areas are the most common places for mold growth, mold can actually be found anywhere in the home where there is moisture.

Other common areas include:

• laundry rooms
• garages
• HVAC systems
• Around windows and window leaks
• In air ducts that are damp or have leaks
• On carpets or rugs that get wet or are often damp
• Inside cabinets that are located in damp areas
• Behind wallpaper that is peeling or has water damage

The best way to prevent mold growth is to keep your home maintained, clean, and dry. Be sure to fix any leaks promptly and ventilate damp areas to prevent moisture and condensation from accumulating. It’s a good idea to have your home inspected for mold periodically, especially if you live in an area with high humidity which is prone to mold growth. If you do find mold in your home, be sure to have it removed professionally by a mold removal company as soon as possible.

Signs You May Have Black Mold

There are a few signs that you may have mold. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good indication that you have a mold issue:

1. A musty or mildew smell in your home

A musty or mildew smell is one of the most common signs of mold. The smell of mold is often described as being similar to dampness or wet socks. The smell comes from mycotoxins, which are chemicals that are released by the mold.

2. Visible mold growth

Of course, one of the most obvious signs is when you have visual mold. Mold can often be seen as a black, green, or white fuzzy growth on surfaces. Mold can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, paper, carpet, and tile.

3. Water stains or dampness on walls or ceilings

If you notice water stains or dampness on your walls or ceilings, it’s a good indication that you have a leak somewhere in your home. Leaks can provide the perfect conditions for mold to grow, so be sure to have them fixed promptly.

4. Peeling paint or wallpaper.

Another sign of mold is peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper. While it doesn’t guarantee mold growth, it can be a good indication that there is mold present.

5. Signs of condensation

Condensation can often be a sign of high humidity, which is ideal for mold growth. Do you notice water droplets on your windows or mirrors? This is an indication that the humidity in your home is too high.

6. Health problems

If you or your family members are suddenly experiencing unexplained health problems, it can be a symptom and sign of mold in your home.

These health problems can include respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to have your home inspected for mold.

Need a Mold Inspection?

Not sure if you have mold or not?  You may need a mold inspection.  During a mold inspection, samples from your home are taken for mold testing and then sent to a laboratory.  The report and lab results will let you know if you do have a mold: the type, the quantity of the mold spores, the severity of the mold issue, and if you will need mold remediation.

For testing, a mold sample can either be an air test sample using air cassettes, swab sample, or tape lift sample.   During the inspection, the technician can advise which test is needed for the mold issue you are having in your home.

BOOK A MOLD INSPECTION HERE

Keep Mold Away with a New York Mold Removal Service

Mold can be a small issue that can be resolved by yourself by properly cleaning and removing the areas of mold.

When mold is a bigger problem in your home, you should seek help. Taking action is essential if you think you may have a severe mold problem somewhere in your house. The best way to remove this mold is to hire a professional mold remediation company to assist you.

At Dry Ease Mold Removal, we are New York’s trusted mold remediation service for both residential and commercial properties. We have the experience and knowledge to safely and effectively remove mold.

We also offer a wide range of other services, including water damage restoration, air duct cleaning, and more.

If you think you may have mold in your home, don’t wait to take action. Contact Us Today to schedule a consultation. Our team will work with you to create a customized plan to safely and effectively remove mold from your home.

Bathroom mold isn’t something anyone is ever happy to see, but it is common. The bathroom is the ideal breeding ground for mold; it’s damp, warm, and a relatively small space. If you don’t sufficiently air out a bathroom with an extractor fan or by opening a window, that warmth and moisture can cause mold.

The most common areas to find mold in the bathroom is on caulk, grouting, and painted surfaces since it provides a porous surface for the mold to hold onto. Since you’re here, we can safely assume you have found mold in your bathroom, and you want to know how to get rid of it.

The good news is it’s straightforward to remove mold. Read on to learn how to clean the mold in your bathroom and prevent it from happening again.

Can I remove bathroom mold by myself?

Small amounts of mold that grow on caulk, grout, and painted bathroom surfaces can be removed during your normal bathroom cleaning. We’ll guide you through how to remove minor appearances of mold below, but if you discover a larger patch that has been developing for some time, it’s best to contact a Bathroom mold remediation company to remove it for you. Mold can be harmful to your health, especially when disturbed, so do not try to tackle anything that looks like it has been in place for some time.

How do I get rid of mold on grout?

If you’ve noticed some dark spots appearing on your grout, it’s likely little specks of mold. While sealed tile is mold-resistant, grout is not unless it is sealed regularly. If there’s just a little mold and your grout is white, you can use a simple bleach or white (distilled) vinegar solution to spray and rub away the mold. If it does not simply wipe away, you can leave it to sit for up to 30 minutes and use a small brush to scrub it away.

If you have colored grout, it’s best to speak to bathroom mold removal specialists as using bleach, vinegar, or baking soda may make the color fade, and so it’s best to seek specialist advice.

How do I remove bathroom mold from a painted wall?

If mold has grown on painted or wallpapered surfaces in your bathroom, you’ll need to be careful. You cannot use bleach, but some lightly diluted white (distilled) vinegar can be effective. Simply spray or wipe some of the solution over the mold and it should come away easily.

If your bathroom has been decorated with bathroom paint, this will be easier, but matt paint and luxury wallpapers can prove more of a challenge. If you’re not sure, a bathroom mold removal company can advise you.

How do I prevent bathroom mold?

• Use your bathroom extractor fan or open a window as you shower, or immediately after if it’s too cold
• If you have a shower curtain, pull it out straight (so it’s not bunched up) after showering so it can dry efficiently
• Make sure towels are hung up and can dry properly
• Wash towels, mats, and your shower curtain regularly
• Make sure your faucets don’t have a leak (even a constant drip can make the room more humid)
• Reseal your grout once a year
• Repair/replace caulking that’s no longer effective
• Paint over walls that have normal paint with special bathroom or kitchen paint, as it’s designed to be water and mold resistant

General Tips for your Bathroom

Proper ventilation in bathrooms is vital to lowering humidity. Besides piping systems behind the walls in the bathroom, showering and general sink use creates elevated humidity which can be a breeding ground for mold and create a mold condition. Extraction fans should be installed in bathrooms, you typically need a one-inch fan for every 100 sq. ft of bathroom space. Backsplashes and tubs should be recaulked and regrouted every 18 months regardless of the deterioration of the sealant of backsplashes.  Building materials used for bathrooms should exclusively be cement board, tile, and grout. Ultimately, framing of the bathroom should be used with metal studs not wood 2 x 4’s.  Once a leak has been identified, and sheetrock has been affected by water damage in a bathroom, it should be immediately replaced. Once sheetrock has been affected by water damage, as it dries, it becomes more porous. Porous building materials are a breeding ground for mold growth.

A mold inspection and testing are recommended when you are not sure if you have mold, especially if you can’t see it.  It may be in your bathroom behind a wall, inside the ceiling, or in an area that you can’t get to or see, you should contact a mold professional to help you.

CLICK HERE for a Bathroom Mold Inspection

Bathroom Mold Removal in New York

If you’ve found mold in your bathroom and it’s unsafe to handle alone or is in a difficult-to-reach area, we’re here to help. We’re mold remediation specialists in New York and will remove bathroom mold safely from your home or place of work, ensuring the health of everyone inhabiting the building. To find out more, click here.