When a mold problem develops in your home, it may be hard to spot at first. But, left alone, household mold can grow into a serious issue. Once it penetrates your walls, your home may need serious repairs and mold restoration services to fully remove it. 

Let’s discuss the dangers that mold can pose in your Denver home. But, remember that while household mold is an inconvenience, it can be fixed with the help of mold removal experts. 

Household Mold Risks

There are two main risks of household mold that Denver homeowners should keep in mind. These are allergic reactions and damage to your home. 

Allergic Reactions

Mold can diminish your air quality and make the people in your home sick. Most allergic reactions to mold involve respiratory symptoms. The mold particles in the air can cause irritation to the nose, throat, and lungs, causing significant discomfort. 

Common symptoms of a mold allergy include:

• Runny and/or itchy nose
• Itchy throat
• Congestion
• Sneezing
• Watery eyes 

Most people only have mild reactions to household mold. But, certain individuals are more susceptible to health effects from household mold than others. Namely, those who suffer from asthma and allergies will have a stronger reaction to mold. Those with asthma will have a higher risk of suffering an asthma attack when mold particles are in the air. Additionally, infants and young children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems may be at a higher risk for a mold allergy.

Damage to Your Home

As well as compromising the air quality in your home, household mold can cause physical damage to your home. This damage will need to be repaired to restore your home to its previous condition. 

Mold grows on organic materials. These may include paper, wood, and fabric, among other materials. In homes, mold commonly grows on drywall, wallpaper, floorboards, ceiling tiles, and even carpeting. Once mold has started to grow on these materials, it will continue to spread until it’s removed. Left alone for a long time, this may lead to collapsed walls, ceilings, and floorboards. Mold can damage these materials to the point beyond repair. 

Household mold most commonly grows in the bathroom, basement, and attic, as these rooms tend to be more damp and humid than others. But, it can also grow in your HVAC system, leading to mold inside of your ductwork. This type of household mold can be particularly difficult to remove. But, if you catch the issue before it’s a serious problem, you can likely just have your HVAC system cleaned by home restoration specialists. A team of experts can clean out the ducts safely and thoroughly to amend your mold problem. Preventative measures may also be suggested, such as using dehumidifiers, improved ventilation, and mold-resistant home products. 

How Does Household Mold Develop?

Understanding how household mold develops in the first place can be helpful in preventing its spread throughout your home. Humidity and moisture in your home create an optimal environment for mold to grow. This may occur in the summer in humid climates, or due to unforeseen circumstances like a flood. 

Water damage is one of the main causes of household mold. Given that mold is prime for growth in damp, humid conditions, water damage creates an optimal environment for mold to develop. Keep an eye out for signs of water damage in your home, including bubbles, softness, or water stains on your ceilings and/or walls. Additionally, after a leak or flood, it’s important to have the damage addressed by water restoration experts in Denver to keep mold from spreading. 

Also keep in mind that mold can develop in many places throughout your home, and not only those that are visible. Hidden household mold poses the added risk of being hard to detect. It can be difficult to spot hidden household mold until it’s already become a major issue. So, keep your eye out for these signs of hidden household mold to protect your home and family:

• Allergic reactions, namely including respiratory symptoms, among those living in your home
• Musty odors
• Condensation, typically around interior windows 

With a team of Denver mold removal experts by your side, you can keep household mold from becoming a major issue. Contact us today to learn more.