The presence of black mold in a home is a problem that no homeowner should take lightly. Black mold is known to cause a variety of health problems, ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to cancer, and in very severe cases, even death. For these reasons, every homeowner should make it his responsibility to know about black mold – what causes it, where to find it, and what can be done in case of an infestation.
Before testing for black mold, you first have to know where it is likely to grow. Molds need moisture to grow and thrive. Without a consistent source of moisture, molds would not be able to survive. This means that the best places to look for mold are in moist areas or in places that are highly likely to become moist, such as the bathroom, basement, kitchen, etc. Although not visible, black mold can also grow beneath tiles and behind walls and in other areas that are exposed to hot and then cold air. The change in temperature causes condensation which can provide the moisture black mold needs to grow.
All these things considered, we now know that the easiest way to find black mold is simply to look around. Aside from a visual confirmation, also be wary of the musty smell of mold. Your nose is perhaps one of the cheapest devices you can use to detect mold. With its distinctive, weird smell, black mold is pretty easy to recognize.
Black mold, despite its name, is not always black. It can range from mossy green to deep green to black. Aside from the color, another way of identifying black mold is through its growth pattern. Black mold always grows in a circular or ring-like pattern unless there is a sudden change of environment that affects the availability of moisture.
With the many forms and looks mold comes in, identifying the type you have can sometimes be tricky. This is why the best option to test for mold is simply to get the help of a certified professional who is equipped with the experience and knowledge to test the type of mold, the extent of spreading, and how serious the infestation is. The professional will also be able to tell you how to get rid of the infestation and give you tips on how to prevent it from coming back.
Another option you have is to use do it yourself test kits which you can avail online or at local hardware stores. These test kits are often very easy to use. All you will have to do is get air and visual samples of areas in your home that have an infestation then send the kit into a lab.
Although it is impossible to keep yourself totally safe from molds, prevention will still always be better than cure. The best way to handle mold is to keep it from having a place to grow, and there’s no better way to do this than to closely monitor your home and practice proper personal hygiene.