Mold May Be Hiding In Your Home

For a healthy home, monitoring and eliminating mold is crucial. Unfortunately, mold in your home can be sneaky and creep up on you when you least expect it. Commonly, household mold develops because of water damage or a damp surface. Spores are known to remain dormant until they have the moisture and nutrients necessary to bloom.

Below, I have created a list of the top mold spots that are often missed in a house:

1. Damp basements or crawl spaces: Basements meet all the qualifications for a perfect growth area for mold: they are dark, close to the earth, and hidden from view. Ensure that you create proper drainage and ventilation to prevent mold growth.

2. Shower stalls and bathtubs: Again, mold loves humid areas. When you shower, the warm moisture creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. The bathroom is the most common hotspot for mold! Check toilet seals, wet walls, shower curtains, sinks, and ESPECIALLY the shower. To prevent mold from penetrating the tiles, ensure your caulking and grout are in good condition.

3. Kitchens: Since kitchens are typically humid (think about all the cooking and dishwashing), they’re susceptible to mold growth. A slow leak can go undetected and be a breeding ground for mold. A leak under the sink, behind the fridge, or around the dishwasher can likely lead to a mold problem. Try to check these areas monthly.

4. Refrigerators: The condensation that forms inside your fridge can create a breeding ground for mold.

5. Air conditioners: These units provide the perfect conditions for mold to grow – warm, moist, and often located in a dark place.

6. Houseplants: Believe it or not, houseplants can also be a source of mold. If they’re not getting enough light, mold can grow on the leaves and soil.

7. Carpeting: Mold can become active in carpeting due to flooding, moisture from concrete foundations, or spills. The carpet that harbors mold will need to be replaced.

8. Windows: Condensation can build up on your windows as temperatures fluctuate, and spores hanging around can gradually take hold and bloom into a black, spotty mess. Mold is more common on shaded windows or windows that are often covered by curtains.

The best way to locate mold is to look for leaks in pipes and dry out wet areas in your home. To help prevent mold growth, consider adding an air purifying system.

If you suspect that mold may be present in your home, it’s essential to take action immediately. Contact a professional mold removal company to assess the situation. They’ll be able to safely and effectively remove any mold that’s present. Mold can cause serious health problems, so it’s best not to take any chances.

Call Mary Tarrant 928-277-6404 for your real estate needs!