You've probably heard horror stories about houses that have been overrun by a mold infestation, but the reality isn't always so dramatic. Mold sometimes acts as an opportunistic invader that takes up residence in dark, damp recesses within your home.
A professional mold inspection is invaluable for revealing mold in areas where it would otherwise be undetectable. Here are three cases where you should consider a residential mold inspection.
1. You've Recently Dealt With Water Damage
Even if you think your home has completely recovered, you may be facing the residual effects of a water damage disaster. A burst plumbing pipe or a roof leak can be the catalyst for a hidden mold infestation in your home.
After a water damage event, mold can hide within the frame of your house behind your walls, floors, and ceilings. Mold colonies may also develop in cramped areas like your attic, air ducts, or crawl spaces. Residential mold inspections can help homeowners gauge the true extent of water damage after a major leak.
2. Your Home Has Been Unoccupied
Mold has a tendency to creep into unoccupied homes when no one's around to manage the HVAC system or let in fresh air. Uncontrolled humidity may produce enough condensation for mold spores to take root virtually anywhere in your home.
If work or vacation keeps you away from home for an extended period, a mold inspection is a good safety precaution when you return. Many home buyers also choose to schedule a professional mold inspection before settling into any new property that was previously vacant.
3. You Struggle With Unexplained Health Problems
Prolonged exposure to mold spores is known to cause adverse health effects, especially in those with greater sensitivity to mold. As noted by the Environmental Protection Agency, "Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins)."
If you or someone in your household has been suffering from persistent sinus irritation or respiratory symptoms, mold may be to blame. This is particularly likely if symptoms seem to worsen when you're at home. A mold inspection could be a good first step toward improving your air quality and making your home healthier.
Sometimes mold isn't visible, so you should learn to recognize cases that call for a professional inspection. Search your area for a damage restoration contractor who provides home mold inspections and mold remediation services. For more information on residential mold inspections, contact a professional near you.
Share11 November 2022
When something you own and love is damaged, it is easy to shrug and decide that item will never be the same again. Sometimes, you might be correct in this assumption. But if you really like the item and would like to keep using it, there is usually the option to repair it. Damage repair contractors can do incredible work, often with items and materials that the average person might assume were beyond being able to be repaired. We won't claim to be damage contractors, but we do wish to raise awareness of their work on this blog. When something you love is damaged, we want you to know you have options.