Have you ever walked into a room and been hit with a damp, musty smell? It might be more than just a temporary inconvenience. Mould can be a serious issue in homes and businesses because of the damage it can cause to your property and the potential health risks. Here are ten signs you have mould in your space and why it’s crucial to seek professional mould remediation.
1. Persistent Musty Odour
One of the first signs of mould is a lingering musty smell. This damp, earthy scent is often the first indicator of mould growth, even if you can’t see it. Mould tends to hide in places where it’s hard to spot, such as behind walls, under floors or in poorly ventilated areas like basements or attics. If you notice this smell in any room, it’s worth taking a closer look.
2. Visible Mould Growth
This is the most obvious sign. Mould can appear in various forms and colours, including black, green, white or even orange. Sometimes, it shows up as small spots, while other times, it can cover large areas. Mould can grow on a variety of surfaces, including walls, ceilings, floors and even furniture. If you see any unusual growths on surfaces, it’s a clear sign that mould is present and likely spreading.
3. Water Damage
Areas exposed to water damage—whether from leaks, floods or condensation—are prime spots for mould to thrive. Even if the water issue has been resolved, mould can continue to grow in these areas long after the initial damage occurred. This is particularly true if the area wasn’t dried properly or if materials like carpets, drywall or insulation were affected. It’s crucial to check these areas regularly, especially in the weeks and months following a water incident.
4. Discolouration on Walls or Ceilings
Sometimes, mould doesn’t appear as the classic black spots. It can also manifest as discoloured patches on your walls or ceilings, often in yellow, brown or black hues. These stains often indicate underlying water damage, leading to mould growth. Moulding behind walls can cause the surface to appear dirty or stained, even if you can’t see the mould.
5. Peeling or Bubbling Paint
Moisture build-up behind your walls can cause paint to peel, bubble or crack. This could be a sign that water is seeping into your walls, creating a perfect environment for mould to grow unnoticed. If you’ve recently repainted a room and noticed the paint isn’t holding up as expected, it could be a sign of moisture issues. Peeling paint may seem like a minor cosmetic problem, but it’s often a warning sign of bigger issues behind the scenes.
6. Health Issues
Are you experiencing more frequent sneezing, coughing or respiratory problems? Mould exposure can aggravate allergies and asthma. If you or your family are experiencing unexplained health issues, it could be due to mould spores in your home. These spores can become airborne and easily inhaled, leading to a range of health problems. Common symptoms of mould exposure include nasal congestion, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation or, in some cases, skin irritation.
7. Condensation
Excessive condensation on windows, walls or pipes can be a sign of high humidity levels in your home, which is a breeding ground for mould. Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cool surface, causing the moisture to condense into water droplets. While it’s common in bathrooms and kitchens, consistent condensation on windows or walls throughout your home is a sign of poor ventilation and excessive moisture.
8. Warped or Buckled Floors
Wooden floors that have started to warp or buckle might be doing so due to moisture build-up beneath them. This moisture can lead to mould growth, which could be causing damage to your flooring. When mould grows beneath flooring, it can cause the material to warp or become soft. This compromises the structural integrity of your flooring and poses a health risk, as mould can easily spread from under the floor to other areas of your home.
9. Rust on Pipes
Rusting pipes are another sign of moisture problems. Where there is moisture, there is often mould. If you notice rust on your pipes, especially in areas with poor ventilation, checking for mould nearby is a good idea. Rust indicates prolonged exposure to moisture, which is also the ideal environment for mould to grow.
10. Unexplained Fatigue or Irritation
Mould exposure can sometimes lead to unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, skin irritation or neurological issues. If these symptoms persist without a clear cause, toxic mould could be the culprit.
Schedule Your Professional Mould Inspection Now!
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to take action. At Efficient Hygiene Services, we provide mould remediation, ensuring your property is thoroughly inspected, treated and restored. Our team adheres to the highest industry standards, using advanced techniques to remove mould and prevent its return. Don’t let mould compromise your health or property—contact us today for expert advice and effective solutions.
Find Efficient Hygiene Services here.
