Because of the rainstorm this past October that deluged the San Francisco Bay Area, many residential and commercial properties were affected by water damage. If not promptly and thoroughly dried out, water damage can cause mold growth. Further, mold doesn’t just damage your home; it can also be a risk to your health. Mold isn’t always obvious, and while it may be visible on your walls, it can also be growing on the inside of walls or in dark basements where it is less noticeable. Many times, visible mold is just the tip of the iceberg for more widespread mold issues. Here are some signs to look for if you suspect mold in your home:

1. Noticing a Musty Smell

Because mold is often hidden in dark, damp areas of your home, the smell may be the first sign to tip you off that mold is growing. Different species of mold have different odors, but typically mold smells like something musty, earthy, and damp. Some people describe the odor as being like a wet sock or rotting wood. Generally, if there is a musty, unfamiliar smell in your home days after a rainstorm or other water damage, this might be mold growth. Be attentive and consider getting your home inspected for mold if you notice a musty smell!

2. Frequent Headaches, Cold Symptoms, or Respiratory Issues

Mold particles are very small – about 20x smaller than dust! This makes it very easy for mold to enter your lungs and cause health issues. If you notice that you are experiencing headaches more frequently, have new cold or flu-like symptoms, or notice that you are having difficulty breathing or experiencing other respiratory issues, then this could be a sign of mold. All these symptoms have multiple other potential causes, but if you notice that these symptoms are lingering or reoccurring frequently, then mold may be a factor. You might also consider staying somewhere away from home for a few days and seeing if these symptoms subside. If they do, it would be wise to have your home inspected for mold.

3. Drywall Feels Moist or has Peeling or Bubbling Paint

While mold is not often visible on the outward-facing side of drywall, you may notice other visible signs of hidden mold. Discoloration or yellow or brown water stains on the wall or ceiling can be a sign of mold since mold often grows at the site of recent water damage. The paint or wallpaper around the area may crack, peel, or bubble from the moisture, and the walls may even be warped or bulged. Try feeling and pressing on some of the walls, and if they feel cold and moist to the touch or bend easily when pressed on, there may be moisture and mold present.

When it comes to mold, it is always better to remediate sooner rather than later because it spreads quickly if untreated and can affect your health. If you suspect that moisture and mold are present in your home or business, contact Dry Kings Restoration to get the job done right! Our expert technicians know how to properly remediate mold so you can feel safe in your home while bringing it back to pre-loss condition.