The short answer
What Health Risks Does Mold Pose
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp areas. When mold is visible, it means spores are present in the air. Breathing those spores can irritate your nose, throat, and lungs. For healthy people, that often means a stuffy nose, sore throat, or coughing. For others, the reaction can be stronger.
People with asthma or allergies may notice their symptoms worsen. Mold can also trigger asthma attacks. Those with weakened immune systems may develop infections. If you feel unwell after being around mold, see a doctor.
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Coughing or wheezing
- Skin irritation
- Headaches or fatigue
How Fast Should You Act
The longer mold sits, the more it spreads and the more spores it releases. Acting quickly reduces the health risk and the damage to your home. If you spot a small patch, clean it right away with soap and water. For larger areas, more than a few square feet, you may need professional help.
Mold needs moisture to grow. The real fix is finding and stopping the water source. A leaky pipe, a damp crawl space, or a roof that drips can all feed mold. In a humid climate, moisture problems can appear fast. Fix the leak and dry the area thoroughly.
Can You Clean Mold Yourself
For small patches on hard surfaces, you can clean with a mild detergent and water. Wear gloves and a mask to avoid breathing spores. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners. After cleaning, dry the area completely to stop regrowth.
If mold covers a large area or has soaked into drywall, carpet, or insulation, cleaning it yourself may not be enough. Those materials often need to be removed. The pros have the equipment to contain spores and dry the structure properly. They also check for hidden moisture.
When to Call Water Damage Pros
You should consider calling the pros when mold covers more than a small patch, or when it keeps coming back. They can also help if you have health concerns or if the mold is in your heating and cooling system. The pros assess the moisture source and the extent of the growth.
Their work usually involves finding the water source, extracting standing water, and drying the structure. They may remove wet drywall or flooring. They also use dehumidifiers and air movers to speed drying. In a hot, dry climate, moisture can hide in wall cavities or under slabs, so a thorough drying process matters.
How to Prevent Mold from Returning
The right way to prevent mold is to control moisture. Keep indoor humidity below 50 percent. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Fix leaks right away, and dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours. Check attics and crawl spaces for condensation.
After a water event, dry everything thoroughly. Remove soaked carpets and padding. In a hot, dry climate, moisture can hide in wall cavities or under slabs, so a thorough drying process matters. Keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can stop a burst pipe quickly. Regular checks help you catch problems early.
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Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Is black mold more dangerous than other mold?
Black mold is a common term, but the color alone doesn't tell you the risk. Some black molds produce toxins, while others are harmless. Any visible mold can trigger allergies. The safest approach is to treat all mold growth seriously and remove it promptly.
Can mold make you sick even if you don't see it?
Yes. Mold can grow behind walls, under floors, or in air ducts where you can't see it. A musty smell is often the first clue. If you have unexplained allergy symptoms, you may have hidden mold. A water damage inspection can find moisture and mold in hidden spots.
What should a homeowner do if they find mold in their home?
First, stop the moisture source, like a leak. Then clean small areas with soap and water. For larger growth or mold on porous materials, call the pros. They can remove the affected materials and dry the area. Check your insurance policy to see if mold damage is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.