From apartments and family homes to hotels and offices, mold is a common issue for property owners in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Indoor contamination can affect health and damage structures, so it’s important to schedule a comprehensive mold inspection at the first sign of concern. But how do you know when mold may be a problem that needs attention? Here are the main signs that active growth should be tested by a professional.
What Are Common Signs I Need Mold Testing?
Mold testing incorporates everything from AI-assisted sampling to the use of detection dogs to identify contamination in your home or business. If any of the following issues are present, you can trust the experts to identify the source of the problem.
Stains and Discoloration on Walls or Ceilings
Stains and discoloration appear when water seeps into ceilings, walls and surfaces. These damp conditions are ideal for mold growth—both visible and well-hidden. If you notice brown, gray, or black blotches or patches on the property, it’s a clear sign that moisture has penetrated the building materials and mold is beginning to grow.
Musty Odors That Don’t Go Away
Earthy, stale and damp smells are common in places where mold is growing. The unpleasant odor comes from mold releasing microbial volatile organic compounds that carry a distinctive smell. While fragrances can mask the odor temporarily, if it returns, you need a professional mold inspection to locate the source of the contamination.
Peeling Paint or Visible Moisture Damage
When moisture enters a property, it can cause visible signs such as blistered drywall, warped flooring and flaking paint. You’ll often notice these issues in basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, HVAC mechanical rooms and flat roofs. While these visible signs may seem minor, they can conceal more severe mold growth.
Respiratory Symptoms or Allergic Reactions
Mold exposure can lead to coughing, congestion, wheezing, headaches, itchy eyes and other common symptoms. To isolate the factors that could be causing allergies or respiratory issues, pay attention to whether symptoms improve when you leave certain spaces within the property. If you and other occupants experience issues in certain zones within the property, mold testing can identify where mold is growing in your space.
Condensation and Dampness in Certain Areas of the Property
Water droplets on windows, damp window sills and fogged glass are some common signs of condensation in the home. Similarly, moisture in basements and damp areas in closets near exterior walls can indicate that inadequate ventilation and poor air circulation is causing dampness. Persistent condensation and dampness signal excessive moisture levels that create ideal conditions for mold growth.
Contact Us for Mold Testing Services in Dallas-Fort Worth
Barrett Environmental provides expert mold inspections for commercial and residential clients in the DFW area. We combine science, technology and biology to deliver comprehensive indoor assessments. Call (214) 886-3108 or request an inspection today.