Dealing with mould in your property can be tricky. Although mould doesn’t always pose an immediate threat to health, it has the potential to cause structural damage to a building. If left untreated, it can lead to numerous health issues in the future. Large mould infestations are often visible or will give off a particular smell.
How Does Mould Form Indoors?
Mould is a fungus (microscopic organism) that develops in moist environments. It’s a crucial part of the ecosystem but not something you want in a home. Their role is to break down organic materials, which makes them a threat to health. Mould can spawn almost anywhere where there is enough moisture present. You will often find it on ceilings, wallpaper, soft furnishings, clothes, tiles, plants and food.
Mould and mildew develop within 24-48 hours of moisture exposure. After an area of the property has already been exposed to water, the mould will continue to grow until measures are taken to prevent further moisture from reaching the area. There are multiple causes for mould formation inside a property. Any form of water damage will lead to a mould issue. This can include more extreme water damage, such as flooding, or water damage from roof leaks. Increased moisture and damp air can also cause mould, for instance, residual steam in a bathroom after showering or cold and damp basements.
Sign You Have Mould In Your Home
There are many types of mould out there, but they are not something anyone wants inside their home. Mould can cause structural issues, allergies and health complications as it gradually destroys whatever it grows on. This is why it’s essential to learn the telltale signs of mould and mildew in a property, so it can be managed and prevented in the future. Here are the key indicators that there is mould growing inside a home:
Visible mould spores
The easiest way to spot indoor mould is to look for it actively. You will likely be able to see visible spores in the affected area. These are typically in ceiling corners and damp rooms, such as bathrooms. While spotting mould makes it easily identifiable, if you can see the spores, the problem has already progressed to a significant mould infestation.
Feeling under the weather
A good indicator of a mould before it goes through the walls is feeling unwell. Cold and flu-like symptoms are common for people living in mouldy surroundings. It can be difficult to know whether the symptoms result from a virus or stress. Still, if the cause is difficult to identify, checking for damp areas, cracks and leaks could help you solve the problem.
There is a lingering damp smell
Before visible spores develop inside a property, a mould issue can often be identified by a damp, musty smell. Mould species give off an odour when they are multiplying. Basements and attics usually have this smell because they are typically damp and dark.
Frequent nosebleeds & headaches
Unfortunately, ill health is a real risk regarding mould infestations. This is why resolving the issue as soon as possible is important. Having more nosebleeds than usual or experiencing more frequent headaches can all be indicative of mould in the home. Breathing in damp air can eventually take its toll on a person’s respiratory health.
There is a leak somewhere
Leaking roofs, burst pipes, and a lack of proper ventilation can all lead to mould formation. Flooding can cause excess moisture, leading to damp. If the affected area hasn’t been dried out quickly enough or there is a concealed ongoing leak, it won’t take long for mould to develop. It is important to keep checking these areas.
Ongoing respiratory issues
Mould can trigger asthma or cause asthma-like symptoms in an allergic reaction. Shortness of breath and general difficulty breathing indoors could mean a potential mould issue. Feeling unwell can lead to people staying indoors in their homes, but if this is the mould’s source, it will only worsen the symptoms.
How To Test Your Property For Mould
Mould spores are often unmistakable, particularly if it is a large issue. Once a particular area has been identified as potentially mouldy, there are several tests that can be carried out to help confirm that mould is the underlying issue.
Clean the area
Both mould and dirt have similar visual characteristics depending on the extent of the issue. To confirm whether the marks on a wall are, in fact, mould or it is merely a build up of dust and dirt, do the following. Wiping the area should remove either one, but if the marks are mould spores, then they will return within a few days. Taking diluted bleach to the affected area will lighten mould spores quickly, which can also be a good indicator.
Check for structural issues
Dirt or stains won’t cause damage to the structure of a wall. However, if the marks on a wall result from mould, there is likely to be rot present also. Taking a small sharp tool to the area will soon determine the issue. If the material is soft and crumbles, then the culprit is most definitely mould.
Check for plumbing & external leaks
Mould spores near water pipes, plumbing fixtures or external walls mean there is an ongoing issue with excess moisture in those areas. If it’s a plumbing issue, then getting it repaired should cause the mould to dry out. If the mould is on the inside of an external wall, check the same area outside for possible vents or gaps.
The Dangers of Mould
Damp and mould in any property can pose a major health risk to its inhabitants. Respiratory problems, allergic reactions and asthma can all occur as a result of mould. These can even develop into respiratory infections, which can become serious if left untreated. Unfortunately, the issue will continue to get worse unless the mould is found and the cause of it is remedied. Treating mould is straightforward, but treating the health issues it can bring may not be easy. This is why it’s so important to solve indoor mould issues as quickly as possible. Exposure to toxigenic mould (black mould) can be fatal. However, this particular type of mould is extremely rare and is the product of very specific conditions.
Mould itself does not damage a building structure, but it can only form in the presence of damp. Excessive moisture in the fabric of a building can impact it over time. Damp is present long before visible mould appears, so it may have already done significant damage. The longer the moisture is there, the longer it has to affect the property’s structural integrity.
Preventing Indoor Mould
Prevention is always the best option when it comes to mould. There are several ways to keep mould at bay inside a property, helping to keep the structure of the building and its inhabitants free from its effects. If the issue has already taken hold, then acting fast and taking the right measures will stop the mould in its tracks.
Tips for mould prevention:
- Keep humidity levels as low as possible
- Create ventilation by opening windows
- Use central heating to prevent damp
- Decorate with mould-resistant paint
- Clean with mould killing bathroom products
Getting Rid Of Mould
Once mould appears inside a property, household cleaning products are rarely effective enough to eradicate the issue. Due to the potentially dangerous properties of mould, it is recommended to hire a specialist to remove and treat the mould safely and effectively so that it doesn’t become a recurring problem. Seeking the help of someone who is experienced in mould removal will not only make tackling the job easier, but they will also be able to identify the source of the mould. If black mould is present in a property, then it is imperative that it is not disturbed and is only removed by a professional.
The most effective way to prevent mould from occurring in a property is through regular property maintenance. From dealing with plumbing problems and leaky pipework to building repairs and refurbishments, mould can be prevented by taking proper care of a building. Avoiding leaks and ensuring heating is working effectively will also help to address the issue.
If you are interested in how property maintenance can help you stay on top of mould and water damage issues, then get in touch with Kiasu Workforce. We have a team of expert plumbers, builders and more to help you manage your London property.
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