I Think I Found Mold In My House- Now What?

What To Do If You Found Mold In Your House

Mold can be a serious problem in any home and it’s something every homeowner wants to avoid. If you think you may have mold in your home, it is important to know what to do and how to deal with the situation. Being prepared ahead of time can help you avoid mold infestation and the health problems that come with it. Also knowing what you can do yourself can save you money in the long run by not having to hire a professional.

So, you think you found mold in your house- now what? There are 4 basic steps to follow:

  1. Identify the source of the mold growth (moisture traps or water leaks).
  2. Contain and stop the spread.
  3. Remove/clean mold carefully and safely.
  4. Prevent future growth.

If you think you have mold in your house, don’t panic. Take action immediately and you should be okay. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you should know about mold in your home. We will go over the early signs of mold, how to prevent it from spreading, and exactly what to do if you find mold in your house. We will also talk about the dangers of mold and the different types of mold that can occur in your home. So keep reading to be prepared when mold arises!

how to identify and remove mold from your home

Identifying The Source Of Mold Growth

If you find mold in your home, the first step in dealing with it is to identify the source of the growth. Mold can grow anywhere there is moisture, so it’s important to check for any water traps or leaks in your home. These are usually found in basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

To do a thorough check, you should:

  • Inspect the entire house for any water damage, including stains on ceilings, walls, and floors.
  • Look for any peeling paint or wallpaper.
  • Check under sinks and around plumbing fixtures for any leaks.
  • Make sure all appliances are properly vented to the outside.
  • Be sure that your gutters are clean and draining properly.

If you can’t find the source of the mold growth, it may be coming from outside. In this case, you will need to call in a professional to help identify the problem.

Containing And Stopping The Spread Of Mold

Once you have identified the source of the mold, it is important to take action to contain it and stop the spread.

  1. The first step is to remove any items that are wet or have been damaged by mold. These items should be thrown away immediately to prevent further contamination.
  2. Next, you will need to dry out the area where the mold is growing. This can be done with a fan or dehumidifier.
  3. Once the area is dry, you should clean it with a solution of bleach and water. It is also important to seal any porous materials that have been affected by mold. This will prevent the mold from spreading to other areas of your home.
  4. Porous materials include carpets, drywall, insulation, and wood. If you have any of these materials in your home, it is important to take action to prevent the mold from spreading.

how to identify and remove mold from your home

Removing/Cleaning Mold Carefully And Safely

Once you have contained the mold and stopped the spread, you will need to remove it carefully and safely. The best way to do this is with a solution of bleach and water. Here is the step-by-step process of removing and cleaning mold correctly:

  • Start by mixing one part bleach with ten parts water.
  • Next, use a brush or sponge to apply the solution to the moldy area.
  • Be sure to scrub all affected areas thoroughly.
  • Once you have scrubbed the area, allow the solution to sit for about 30 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes, use a clean cloth to wipe away the mold.
  • You may need to repeat this process a few times to completely remove the mold.

You also need to make sure you are doing this safely so make sure you have, use, or wear the following:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Eye protection
  • A respirator or mask
  • Old clothes that you can throw away afterward

Preventing Future Growth Of Mold

The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. Here are some tips to help you prevent mold growth in your home:

  • Keep your home clean and free of clutter.
  • Fix any leaks or water damage immediately.
  • Ventilate damp areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Use a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home.
  • Clean up any spills or messes immediately.
  • Don’t store things in damp or dark areas.
  • Make sure your gutters are clean and draining properly.

If you follow these tips, you should be able to prevent mold from growing in your home. However, if you do find mold in your home, it is important to take action immediately to deal with the problem. Keep an eye on areas that you have removed mold from in the past, as they may be more susceptible to future growth. With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your home mold-free.

The Dangers Of Mold In Your Home

If you think you have found mold in your house, it is important to take action immediately. Mold can cause a number of health problems especially if it goes untreated for a long time. Some of the many serious health issues mold can cause include:

-Allergies

-Asthma

-Respiratory infections

-Eye irritation

-Skin irritation

-Memory loss

-Fatigue

-Nausea

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. If you think you have found mold in your house, remove it immediately.

how to identify and remove mold from your home

When To Call A Professional To Remove Mold

While this article has outlined the steps you can take to remove mold from your home, there are some cases where it is best to call a professional. If the mold is more than ten square feet, if it is growing in your HVAC system, or if you have health concerns, it is best to call a professional.

Mold removal can be a daunting task, but it is important to take action immediately if you think you have found mold in your house. If you aren’t confident in your ability to identify and properly remove mold in your home then it’s best to hire a professional to help you. Many mold removal companies offer a visit to your home free of charge to assess the situation and give you a quote.

The Bottom Line

Mold can be a serious problem in your home if it is not dealt with quickly and properly. If you think you have found mold in your house, take action immediately to remove it. Start by identifying the source, containing it, and then carefully remove it using a bleach and water solution. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when doing this. You may also want to consider hiring a professional to help you with mold removal if the problem is more serious. With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your home mold-free. We hope this article helped answer some of your questions and concerns about finding mold in your home. Thanks for reading and good luck!

 

Related Questions

Does home insurance cover mold removal?

Unfortunately, most home insurance policies don’t cover mold removal. This is because mold is usually considered to be a preventable problem. However, if the mold is due to a covered event, such as a burst pipe, then the insurance may cover the cost of removal.

Can you live in a house with mold?

It is possible to live in a house with mold, but it can be dangerous. Mold can cause a number of serious health problems, especially if it is left untreated for a long time. If you think you have mold in your house, it is important to take action immediately to remove it.

What kills mold?

There are a number of products that can kill mold, including bleach, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide. However, it is important to make sure you are using these products safely. Always wear rubber gloves and eye protection when using them. In addition, it is important to make sure the area is well-ventilated when removing mold.