Mold spores are invisible to the naked eye and circulate in the air. Mold is beneficial in the outdoors. It travels and degrades plant material naturally. Indoor mold, on the other hand, is hazardous to one's health and can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, nausea, and headaches.
Mold can grow in any home if mold spores are exposed to the right conditions. Spores thrive in warm, damp environments—kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms are especially prone to growth. Mold frequently grows in places where it is not visible, such as inside walls. If a pipe has a minor leak inside your wall, you may be unaware of it for some time. Water can cause extensive damage.
Recent medical studies also show that mold is one of the most common causes of allergy symptoms. Certain types of mold can even cause fatal disorders. The presence of mold, fungus, and mildew can create health hazards, so homes should be tested to determine the type of mold growing in a home. So, how can you tell if you have mold in your home? A professional mold inspection is the best way to find out if you have mold.
Inspectors can perform swab, air, and carpet samples to determine the type of mold and the amount of mold growing in the home. Samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis and the results are generally available in five business days. It is also important to understand why mold is growing in a home. Inspectors can tell you possible reasons for mold growth and what repairs are needed to eliminate the problem. Often, simple and inexpensive repairs can eliminate the moisture issues that create an environment for mold growth.
For more information on mold and what you can do to protect your home, please see Mold.