How To Test For Mould In Your Home

CONTENTS

• Understanding mould and its potential dangers
• Recognising signs of mould in your home
• Common household areas prone to mould growth
• DIY mould testing kits
• Professional mould assessments
• Preventive measures and remediation strategies for mould
• Frequently asked questions
• Get in touch

Mould is an unsightly, hazardous growth causing symptoms like allergies and respiratory problems. Testing for it in your home may be challenging without professional help, but there are ways to discover its presence without costly tests.

At ICE Cleaning, our mould removal services consist of conducting a damp survey, testing the mould for accurate lab results, and discovering the root cause of mould. Our 9-step process ensures your property is safe to inhabit again and prevents mould from returning in the future.

Read on to learn more about recognising signs of mould, understanding its dangers and knowing when to call the experts. 

Understanding mould and its potential dangers

Mould is a silent intruder that can grow in your home and pose serious health risks. This microscopic organism, which comes in various types, thrives in damp environments and can cause allergic reactions like sneezing, skin rashes, or asthma attacks.

But, what makes mould particularly dangerous is its ability to grow unnoticed. It is often hidden behind walls or under floors, spreading quietly until the signs become too obvious to ignore - discolouration on surfaces or a musty smell lingering around.

That is why testing for mould becomes essential. It helps you alleviate the issue before it escalates into more significant issues, such as structural damage to your property or severe health problems for inhabitants.

Recognising signs of mould in your home

There are various ways to spot mould before it becomes a bigger issue. Firstly, look for discolouration on walls or ceilings - this could indicate mould growth. It is often black, green or white and might appear as spots or streaks.

If your home smells musty and damp even after airing out rooms, you may have a hidden mould problem. Besides sight and smell tests, consider health symptoms. Constant allergies like sneezing or itching eyes when indoors hint at possible indoor allergens, including mould. 

Common household areas prone to mould growth

Mould thrives in damp, dark corners. The bathroom is often a hotspot due to its humid environment. Showers, bathtubs, and sinks can harbour mould if not regularly cleaned.

Kitchens are another common area for mould growth. From the refrigerator drip pan to under the sink, these areas provide perfect conditions for mould with humid environments and organics.

The basement or cellar may also house hidden mould patches due to their poorly ventilated environment. Finally, do not overlook less obvious places like window sills, wardrobes, and cupboards, as they can thrive in these areas and damage many items.

DIY mould testing kits

If you have spotted signs of mould, a DIY testing kit can be an initial step. Kits of this kind identify the presence of mould in your home.

You swab a suspected area or leave out a petri dish for air sampling, then send it to a lab or get the results by analysing the growth. The results give insight into what is growing in your home. But, these tests do not differentiate between normal and abnormal mould levels.

Mould can be in numerous areas, so it is normal to detect a certain extent in most testing kits. However, determining whether there is a higher concentration is difficult, requiring qualified mould cleaning services.

Professional mould assessments

If you have noticed signs of mould and used a DIY kit, but the results are unclear or indicate severe contamination, you will need professional help.

A specialist from a mould removal company can perform comprehensive mould testing. They have access to advanced equipment that provides accurate readings.

If you are dealing with persistent health symptoms linked to mould exposure, like respiratory issues or allergies, do not hesitate to call the experts.

After all, your health is paramount. The experts are also integral when buying a new home, as a thorough assessment can prevent unwanted growth in the future.

Preventive measures and remediation strategies for mould

Maintaining a dry atmosphere with adequate ventilation is essential to stop mould from forming. This means fixing leaks promptly, using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and maintaining humidity below 50%.

If you spot mould despite these efforts, professional remediation services can effectively remove it. Avoid touching or disturbing the affected area to limit spore dispersion until help arrives. 

After any removal effort, you should always test regularly for lingering spores to avoid repeat issues. DIY testing kits are handy for this task, but you should consult professional mould removal services to receive accurate results.

Frequently asked questions

How can I test if I have mould?

You can use a DIY mould testing kit by purchasing one online from a reputable company. They are easy to use and give results fairly quickly.

How else can I test for mould in my house?

If a DIY kit is inaccurate or you are showing health issues, hire professionals who will conduct an in-depth assessment of your property.

How do I check for a potential mould presence in my house?

To identify possible mould growth, look out for visual clues like dark spots on walls or ceilings. Unusual odours could also indicate its presence.

Is there a tool to test for mould?

Moisture meters or hygrometers are handy tools that help detect areas prone to mould by measuring the moisture level within materials such as drywall and wood.

Get in touch

For damp surveys, mould testing, and mould remediation services, you can rely on our experts at ICE Cleaning. Our cleaners operate seamlessly to create a tailored plan of action for you by testing the mould and discovering the root cause to prevent its return.

Our technicians are available nationwide, all year round, and can be on-site within a few hours of your first call to assist you. To get in touch, contact us today at 0208 066 0360 or enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk to receive a free, no-obligation quote and book a site survey today.