Mold Remediation : How to Detect Mold

A musty smell or visible patches of growth on walls, windows, or ceilings, following a water leak or flood, often characterize mold growth. Mold spores are present in every building but thrive in oxygen-rich environments where there is source water or humidity over 70%.

Property managers and building owners trying to decide whether or not to clean up mold themselves should realize that there will be a significant difference in the approach used for a small mold problem (total area affected is less than ten square feet) and a large contamination problem of more than 10 square feet. The EPA provides guidelines at their web site for tackling these small projects.

What to Do

The first step in taking care of a mold problem is to make sure the area is dried thoroughly. If not completely dried out within 24 to 72 hours, excessive moisture can cause mold colonies to grow on wood, paper, carpet, drywall, or household items.

Buildings which have experienced high moisture conditions and there is a suspicion of mold growth should prompt a call to a certified restoration contractor to help eliminate the mold source and provide help preventing further water damage.

However, there are a few simple steps that can be taken first:

  1. Run a dehumidifier in the affected area.
  2. Remove all water from the area and any water-soaked objects, including furniture, cardboards, carpet, pad, etc.
  3. If you see mold growing, do NOT attempt to clean it up with bleach. Bleach can be hazardous to your health if handled improperly.
  4. Call a certified microbial remediation professional.