Unexpected Places To Look For Mold In Your Home

Mold is a common problem homeowners may encounter at some point, and it is also a disconcerting one. Beyond looking ugly and inflicting damage to your property, it can cause health hazards like allergies, cough, respiratory issues, and itchy eyes. Unfortunately, some types of molds can be toxic to humans, making them a reason to worry. Eliminating it should be the top priority, regardless of the form and type. You can start the project by checking the damp, warm, and dark areas in your home because these are favorable conditions for mold to thrive. However, the concern is daunting because it can grow and thrive in places you may never check. Only experts can help you detect the growth in such hidden spots and eliminate it for good. Let us guide you about the unexpected places to look for mold in your home.

Chimneys

Chimneys are a surprising place where you can find mold because they can harbor favorable conditions for its growth. For example, brick crevices collect dirt, water, and organic debris, while faulty flashing and rusted chimney caps let in rain and snow. Regular sweeping for your chimneys is the best way to keep them clean and germ-free. Also, stay ahead of repairs by fixing flashing and replacing rusted caps when necessary. The good thing about keeping your chimney clean and well-maintained is that it operates at peak efficiency.

Window sashes and seals

Another area you must check frequently is window sashes and seals because moisture can condense and lead to mold growth here. Moreover, dust and dirt supply the food it requires to thrive. You can address the risk by opening windows and wiping moisture from the window sill and the bottom of the sashes after heavy rains. Repairing or replacing window sashes is important, specifically if you notice the seals between panes falling. Also, clean the windows regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt.

Air-conditioning units

Mold is the last thing you expect in your air-conditioning unit, but you will probably find it there. HVAC units trap pollen and dust, and also store moisture from the air, creating ideal conditions for infestation. Moreover, the risks run high for units that do not run around the clock in warm weather. Indoor humidity levels increase, leading to mold growing in ducts, on coils, and in drain pans. The best solution is to call a professional mold remediation expert for the project. You cannot clean an HVAC system by yourself, no matter how great your DIY skills are. Prevention is a better approach, so run your AC during the summer and maintain optimal humidity levels in your home.

Refrigerator drip pans

Remember to check the drip pans under your refrigerator frequently because mold gets everything it requires to thrive in there, from moisture to food spills. Also, include cleaning drop plans as a part of your seasonal cleaning rituals. Spray them with a hydrogen peroxide solution and wipe them clean with a piece of cloth soaked in white vinegar. Cleaning the floor beneath the drip pan keeps it dry and prevents moisture accumulation that elevates the risk of mold growth over time.

Look For Mold in File cabinets

Surprisingly, mold may happily build a home inside your file cabinets if you fail to pay attention. Paper is made from wood pulp, which makes a feast for mold spores. Things worsen if your home has high humidity or water damage. The paper may become damp, leading to an infestation. The worst part is that your files may get permanently damaged once the paper is contaminated. Avoid storing files in damp boxes and ensure that filing cabinets are not placed in attics or basements because the risk runs high in these areas.

Look For Mold On or under door mats and rugs

A doormat helps you keep your home clean, as anyone who enters can clean their shoes by scraping grass, mud, or snow on the mat. However, daily use for these purposes can trap moisture in and under the doormat. Mold spores can easily thrive in such a hospitable environment. Your rugs and carpets are susceptible to it in the same way because kids and pets move around the entire day. Rinse the doormats regularly and invest in deep cleaning of rugs and carpets to prevent mold infestation. Also, ensure that the areas underneath are clean and dry at all times.

Beneath wallpaper and drywall

You may have the most beautiful walls inside your home, but they could have hidden enemies lurking beneath. The last thing you should do is be complacent because mold may easily hide beneath wallpaper, on the back of the wallboard, and under the paneling. Watch out for warning signs by regularly wiping down your walls and checking the seams between floors and ceilings. Also, prime the walls with mold-inhibiting paint before installing new drywall or wallpaper to prevent problems down the line.

Look For Mold On your dishes

Another unexpected place where mold may thrive is on your dishes. You may want to miss the dry cycle on the dishwasher to save up on your energy bills and cut the appliance time. However, it is the worst mistake because you may end up getting mold into your kitchen. Moreover, mold on your dishes is the last thing you want to encounter because it can cause severe health hazards for your loved ones. Always dry your dishes thoroughly before stacking them in the cupboard. You can dry them manually with a dish towel if you want to skip the dishwasher cycle.

Mold can grow and thrive in the most unexpected places, so homeowners should be vigilant about it. However, there is always a chance that you may still miss out on it. The best solution is to call experts for a thorough check and cleanup of your living space. With their experience, expertise, and equipment, they can find the culprit in hidden spots and eliminate it for good. Moreover, they may have some valuable preventive recommendations you can follow to keep your home safe and healthy for the long haul.

Photo by Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash