Mold can be a big nuisance to many homeowners. It’s a type of fungus that grows as thin filaments; once these filaments mature, they produce spores, which are like seeds that travel through the air to find new habitats. Mold grows and spreads quickly and is stubbornly resilient, so it might be a good idea to hire a service that does mold inspection in Austin or your local area to check your house for mold before it becomes a problem.
Where Does Mold Grow?
The most common type of mold that grows indoors is Stachybotrys atra, also known as black mold. This type of mold usually grows on surfaces with high levels of cellulose, such as wood, paper, lint, and fiberboard. Mold likes to grow in damp or moist areas of the house. Ceiling tiles, plumbing systems, and the basement, bathroom and kitchen are some common areas where you might find mold.
How Do You Identify Mold?
Mold doesn’t have to be black or green; different types of mold have different pigmentation. You can have brown, grey and even white mold. However, all kinds of mold appear as inky stained spots on the infected surface. Mold also has a distinct musty odor.
Sometimes it might be hard to spot mold in your house. For instance, mold can grow and thrive underneath carpets and tiles. All the more reason to have a home inspection in Austin.
What are the Dangers of a Mold Infestation?
Mold itself is not toxic, but many different types of mold produce mycotoxins, which are poisonous chemicals that can be harmful to humans and even animals. Allergic reactions are some of the most common health effects of exposure to mold. The same effect can be caused by the microscopic spores released into the air once the mold matures.
Common symptoms of a mold allergy include sneezing, coughing, a runny nose and skin and eye irritation. Mold also biodegrades various organic materials; this can cause structural damage wherever it grows.
How Do You Get Rid of Mold?
There are many DIY solutions often advertised on social media for getting rid of mold. Many of these ideas involve using everyday household products like bleach and detergent. Unfortunately, you probably can’t get rid of mold by pouring some detergent on it. What you need is a professional mold removal service to check every nook and cranny for mold, and then use the appropriate fungicide to kill the mold.
The best you can do when it comes to controlling mold in your house is discourage an infestation. Since mold thrives in moist environments, keep your home clean and dry at all times. It may also help to occasionally inspect areas like the basement and garage where mold can grow unnoticed.