6 Frequently Asked Questions about Mold in Homes

2/24/2023 (Permalink)

There are thousands of different kinds of mold.

Mold. It's all around us, in the air and on surfaces. There's even mold in your home. Here are some of the most common questions about mold.

What is mold and where does it come from?

Mold is a fungus that grows on damp or decaying matter. There are thousands of different kinds of mold.

Mold spores are microscopic, so you can't see them with the naked eye. They exist everywhere, from homes and offices to forests and grassy fields. Although mold spores are present everywhere, it doesn't become a problem until it is introduced to moisture or high humidity levels.

Mold spores can be tracked into your home through open windows and doors, your HVAC unit, and even by your shoes, clothes, or pets.

How do I know if I have mold?

If you have a damp and humid area of your home, it's possible that mold is growing on the wood or drywall. Mold can appear in any room of the house, and it's common to see it after a water leak or flooding. Bathrooms are prime locations for mold to grow as they are usually dark and humid.

If you see mold in your home, it's important to remove it right away. The longer it remains, the harder it will be to get rid of.

Will my insurance company cover the cost?

The answer to this question depends on your insurance company. Different insurers have different policies and may not cover mold removal. For instance, some insurance companies will only cover mold remediation if the infestation occurs due to a water leak or flooding; others require a preliminary inspection prior to making any decisions about coverage. You should contact your agent or broker before taking action so that they can help you understand their policy options.

Can I clean up mold myself?

If you are unsure about whether or not the mold in your home can be cleaned up, it's best to leave the job to a professional. If you do decide to try and clean up the mold yourself, make sure that you wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when doing so.

If it is only a small patch of mold in one area of your home--for example, if there is some visible mold in the corner of your shower--you should be able to remove it using special cleaning products such as OxyClean. However, if there is extensive water damage that has led to large patches of mold infestations growing, then this type of remediation should always be left up to professionals.

How can I prevent mold?

To keep your home free of mold, you should make sure that humidity levels stay below 50%. It is also important to keep your home dry by cleaning up any water damage as quickly as possible.

Who can I call if I suspect there is mold in my home?

If you suspect there is mold in your home, it's important to call a professional. A professional can locate and remediate the mold properly and efficiently. Companies such as SERVPRO of Downtown Houston Central South is highly trained and experienced in residential and commercial mold remediation and cleanup. If you have any questions or are in need of water and mold cleanup services, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO team a call today!