Hidden Mold: Detecting and Addressing Unseen Infestations

At least 45 million buildings in the United States have unhealthy levels of mold, and these unwanted fungal guests can be especially prevalent with Chicagoland’s humid climate, frequent heavy rainfall, and abundant historic structures.

When most home or business owners think of mold, they think of slimy green patches or the dreaded black mold that’s often visible to the naked eye. However, the most insidious form of mold is the kind that hides in plain sight: lurking behind walls, under floors, and within concealed spaces.

These unseen infestations can pose serious health risks and lead to significant structural damage if not promptly detected and addressed. Let’s explore how to detect hidden mold, the risks associated with it, and effective strategies for remediation.

A Silent Threat

Mold thrives in damp, dark environments. When water damage occurs due to a flood, leaky roof, or burst pipe, the stage is set for an explosion of growth. 

Hidden mold refers to fungal growth that occurs in areas not readily accessible, such as behind walls, under flooring, inside ceiling tiles, in dark basements, or your HVAC system. These infestations can develop due to excess moisture problems, the aftermath of a natural disaster, or high humidity levels. 

Unlike visible mold, hidden infestations can go unnoticed for extended periods, allowing the problem to worsen and potentially causing more extensive damage. The consequences can be severe, impacting both the building’s integrity and the well-being of its occupants.

There are red flags to watch out for that can signal unseen problems:

• Musty odors: A persistent, earthy smell can be a telltale sign of mold growth, even if you can’t see it.
• Asthma-like symptoms: Respiratory problems, allergies, or unexplained illnesses could be linked to mold exposure.
• Water intrusion indicators: Discoloration, peeling paint, or warping of walls, floors, or ceilings can suggest hidden moisture issues and potential mold growth.
• Structural damage: In severe cases, mold can destroy wood, drywall, and other building and furnishing materials, leading to costly repairs or loss of property — mold ruins more raw material every year than all fires and termites combined.

Sick Building Syndrome

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a collection of symptoms people can experience after spending time inside certain homes or business environments, such as headaches, fatigue, or skin irritation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) coined the term in 1983 and many papers have been published about this phenomenon. According to the American Lung Association, the average person spends 90% of their time inside houses, offices, schools, and other buildings, where pollution levels can be 2 to 5 times worse than outdoor environments.

Fungal spores can contribute to SBS, and there is no safe level of indoor mold exposure. Even small amounts can be dangerous for children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. Certain molds are toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (mycotoxins).

It’s important to note that different individuals may react differently to the presence of mold and mildew, and some people may be more sensitive than others.

Taking Action

A professional mold inspection can be invaluable for property owners when it comes to detecting this hidden enemy. These inspections involve the use of specialized equipment, such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, to identify areas of moisture that could encourage mold growth.

Professional mold inspectors can collect air samples to analyze for elevated levels of spores, and swab or tape lift samples can be taken from suspicious areas for laboratory analysis to identify the species. This knowledge can assist with remediation and restoration efforts.

Once hidden mold has been identified, it’s essential to address it promptly. Mold remediation is a complex process that requires specialized equipment and training. 

The first step is isolating the affected area to prevent the spread of spores and remove any contaminated materials. Next, it’s crucial to identify and fix the underlying moisture problem to prevent future fungal issues.

Our experts will thoroughly clean and disinfect affected surfaces using appropriate antimicrobial products. We use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration to remove airborne mold spores, with the goal of restoring your home or business completely.

Looking Forward

After successful mold remediation, it’s vital to take steps to prevent mold from returning. This includes:

• Repairing water leaks quickly: Addressing any plumbing or roofing issues that contributed to the mold problem.
• Improving ventilation: Ensuring adequate airflow in all areas of your property.
• Managing humidity: Using dehumidifiers or air conditioners to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels.
• Regular inspections: Conducting routine inspections to identify potential mold issues early on.

Hidden mold can pose a significant threat to your family and property, especially in the Chicago area’s unique climate. 

Indoor air quality in older homes, businesses, and apartment buildings can have a serious effect on the health of the residents and tenants, so it’s important to schedule regular mold inspections and work with an experienced mold remediation team like PuroClean of Evanston.

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