Top 10 Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

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Water damage can be sneaky, often hiding in plain sight and causing extensive issues if left untreated. Recognizing the early signs is essential to prevent costly repairs and maintain the safety and value of your home. Here are the top 10 signs of water damage that every homeowner should know:

1. Water Stains on Walls or Ceilings

Discolored patches on walls or ceilings, often yellow or brown, are classic signs of water damage. These stains indicate that water has seeped through and dried, leaving behind minerals and residues.

What to Do: Check above or behind the stain for leaks, such as a damaged roof or plumbing issue.

2. Peeling or Bubbling Paint and Wallpaper

Water behind walls can cause paint or wallpaper to lose adhesion, leading to peeling, bubbling, or warping.

What to Do: Remove the affected material to inspect the underlying wall for moisture and damage.

3. Warped or Swollen Flooring

Hardwood, laminate, or tile floors that buckle, crack, or swell are clear indicators of water intrusion. This often happens when water seeps under the flooring and causes the materials to expand or weaken.

What to Do: Investigate nearby water sources like plumbing or appliances for leaks.

4. A Musty or Damp Odor

A persistent musty smell often signals hidden water damage, especially if mold or mildew is present. Basements, attics, and areas with poor ventilation are common culprits.

What to Do: Look for damp surfaces and mold growth. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels while addressing the source of the smell.

5. Mold Growth

Mold thrives in moist environments and can appear as dark spots or fuzzy patches on walls, ceilings, floors, or even furniture. It’s a strong indication of excessive moisture.

What to Do: Mold remediation is essential. Depending on the extent of growth, you may need professional help to remove it safely.

6. Increased Water Bills

An unexplained spike in your water bill could indicate a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Even small leaks can waste significant water over time.

What to Do: Inspect your plumbing fixtures and pipes for signs of dripping or pooling water.

7. Cracks in Walls or Foundations

Water can seep into foundation cracks, expanding them over time and potentially weakening the structure of your home. Look for new or worsening cracks in walls, ceilings, or basement floors.

What to Do: Seal the cracks and ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent water pooling near the foundation.

8. Sagging Ceilings or Walls

A ceiling or wall that appears to sag or bulge may have water trapped behind it. This can pose a safety risk as the structure weakens over time.

What to Do: Act quickly to drain the water and repair the structural damage before it worsens.

9. Dripping or Pooled Water

Visible water is the most obvious sign of water damage. Check for puddles near appliances, plumbing, windows, or doors.

What to Do: Clean up the water immediately and locate the source to prevent further damage.

10. Rust or Corrosion

Metal components, like pipes, water heaters, or fixtures, may show signs of rust or corrosion when exposed to moisture over time. This is often a sign of ongoing leaks.

What to Do: Repair or replace the affected components and address the underlying moisture problem.

Why Addressing Water Damage is Critical

Ignoring water damage can lead to:

  • Structural issues like weakened walls, floors, or foundations.
  • Mold growth, which poses health risks.
  • Expensive repairs as the damage spreads.

Call the Experts

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait! Water damage can escalate quickly, leading to more extensive repairs and higher costs. At Mold Solutions & Inspections, we specialize in water damage restoration, offering fast and effective solutions to protect your home.

Contact us today for a free consultation or to set up an onsite inspection. Your home deserves the best care—let us help you restore it to its original condition.

The Impact of Humidity

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Humidity plays a crucial role in the health of your home and can significantly impact the likelihood of water damage and mold growth. Understanding how humidity levels affect your environment is essential for homeowners looking to maintain a safe and healthy living space. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between humidity, water damage, and mold, and provide tips for managing humidity levels in your home.

What is Humidity?

Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. It’s typically expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more moisture. Relative humidity levels above 60% can create an environment conducive to mold growth and other moisture-related issues.

How Humidity Contributes to Water Damage

  1. Condensation: When warm, humid air comes into contact with cool surfaces, such as windows or pipes, condensation occurs. This moisture can accumulate and lead to water damage, especially if not addressed promptly.
  2. Increased Water Table: High humidity can be indicative of a rising water table, which can lead to groundwater seepage. This can cause water to enter basements and crawl spaces, resulting in significant damage.
  3. Material Saturation: Prolonged high humidity can cause building materials—like wood, drywall, and insulation—to absorb moisture, weakening them and making them more susceptible to damage.

The Link Between Humidity and Mold Growth

Mold thrives in moist environments, and high humidity levels can create the perfect conditions for mold spores to grow. Here’s how:

  • Optimal Growth Conditions: Mold spores need moisture to germinate and grow. When humidity levels exceed 60%, they can quickly multiply, leading to infestations within 24 to 48 hours.
  • Hidden Mold: High humidity can lead to mold growth in hidden areas, such as behind walls or under carpets, making it difficult to detect until significant damage has occurred.
  • Health Risks: Mold can pose health risks, including respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. Managing humidity is crucial for protecting your home and your family’s health.

Tips for Managing Humidity in Your Home

  1. Use Dehumidifiers: Investing in a commercial grade dehumidifier can control humidity even in the harshest conditions preventing the chance of mold. Units should be sized correctly and able to handle the work load, as most plastic made brands can not.
  2. Improve Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your home, particularly in areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Use exhaust fans to reduce moisture buildup during cooking and showering.
  3. Seal Leaks: Regularly inspect your home for leaks or gaps in windows, doors, and roofs. Seal these areas to prevent moisture intrusion.
  4. Monitor Indoor Humidity: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in your home. Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort and mold prevention.
  5. Address Water Damage Promptly: If you experience water damage, address it immediately. Quick extraction and drying can prevent mold growth and further damage.

Managing humidity is a vital part of maintaining a healthy home environment. By understanding its impact on water damage and mold growth, homeowners can take proactive steps to protect their properties. Elevated levels of humidity can lead to rapid mold growth and structural damage to your property. For further assistance, contact a team member at Mold Solutions & Inspections for a free consultation.

What is Cladosporium?

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Cladosporium is the genera most frequently encountered in both outdoor and indoor air. It is found in elevated levels in water-damaged environments. Some species may be resistant to certain types of treated lumber. Cladosporium appears gray to black or very dark green and can have a powdery appearance. The genus Cladosporium includes over 30 species. The most common ones include Cladosporium elatum, Cladosporium herbarum, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, and Cladosporium cladosporioides.

Cladosporium is a dematiaceous (pigmented) mold widely distributed in air and rotten organic material and frequently isolated as a contaminant on foods. Some species are predominant in tropical and subtropical regions . Also, some Cladosporium spp. were isolated from fish and were associated with findings of infection. Cladosporium is a common fungus that is a known and documented aero-allergen which is usually associated with plants, wood products, and leather goods; the spores are easily made airborne and as such are a common cause of respiratory problems; allergic reactions and can be an agent for hypersensitivity diseases; it is as a parasite in infections of the skin, soft tissues or nails and has been documented in cases of Blastomycosis, Candidiasis, Chromoblastomycosis, Histoplasmosis, Entomophthoramycocis, Phaeophphomycocis and Keratomycosis.

The findings suggest that fungal antigens from species found in homes are commonly associated with skin sensitization in an allergy clinic population with upper or lower respiratory allergy. No specific relationships were found, however, between the prevalence of fungal species in the home environment and the prevalence as skin-test allergens.

Most commonly identified outdoor fungus. The outdoor numbers are reduced in the winter. The numbers are often high in the summer. Often found indoors in numbers less than outdoor numbers. Indoor Cladosporium may be different than the species identified outdoors. It is commonly found on the surface of fiberglass duct liner in the interior of supply ducts. A wide variety of plants are food sources for this fungus. It is found on dead plants, woody plants, food, straw, soil, paint and textiles. Produces greater than 10 antigens. Antigens in commercial extracts are of variable quality and may degrade within weeks of preparation.

Mold and Allergies: What You Need to Know

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Mold is a common household issue that can significantly impact indoor air quality and, for many, trigger allergic reactions. Understanding the connection between mold and allergies is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment.

What is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, warm conditions. It reproduces by releasing spores into the air, which can easily spread throughout a home. While some molds are harmless, others can produce allergens and irritants that affect sensitive individuals.

How Does Mold Affect Allergies?

For those with mold allergies, exposure can lead to a range of symptoms, including:

  • Sneezing
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Itchy or watery eyes
  • Coughing
  • Skin rashes

In some cases, exposure can also exacerbate asthma symptoms, making it difficult to breathe.

Common Sources of Mold

Mold can grow in various places around the home, particularly in areas with high humidity or moisture. Common sources include:

  • Bathrooms
  • Basements
  • Kitchens
  • Areas with water leaks or flooding

Prevention and Control

To minimize mold growth and its effects on allergies, consider these preventive measures:

  1. Maintain Humidity Levels: Keep indoor humidity below 50% by using dehumidifiers and proper ventilation.
  2. Fix Leaks Promptly: Address any leaks in plumbing or roofing to prevent moisture accumulation.
  3. Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning of surfaces, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, can help prevent mold buildup.
  4. Use Mold-Resistant Products: Consider mold-resistant paints and building materials, particularly in high-moisture areas.

When to Seek Help

If you notice significant mold growth or experience persistent allergy symptoms, it may be time to consult a professional. A comprehensive mold test can lead to discovery of the issue and identify the type of mold which will then aid in finding the origin. Mold remediation experts can assess the situation and safely remove mold, ensuring your home is a healthy space. Having mold remediation completed improperly can lead to cross contamination and only exacerbate the issue, so doing your due diligence by finding a qualified mold removal contractor can save you time and money while also limiting your exposure to mold.

What is Fusarium?

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Fusarium species are ubiquitous and may be found in the soil, air and on plants. Fusarium species can cause mycotoxicosis in humans following ingestion of food that has been colonized by the fungal organism. In humans, Fusarium species can also cause disease that is localized, focally invasive or disseminated. The pathogen generally affects immunocompromised individuals with infection of immunocompetent persons being rarely reported. Localized infection includes septic arthritis, endophthalmitis, osteomyelitis, cystitis and brain abscess. In these situations relatively good response may be expected following appropriate surgery and oral antifungal therapy. Disseminated infection occurs when two or more noncontiguous sites are involved. Over eighty cases have been reported, many of which had a hematologic malignancy including neutropenia. The species most commonly involved include Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Fusarium moniliforme (also termed F. verticillioides). The diagnosis of Fusarium infection may be made on histopathology, gram stain, mycology, blood culture, or serology. Portals of entry of disseminated infection include the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract, and cutaneous sites.

The skin can be an important and an early clue to diagnosis since cutaneous lesions may be observed at an early stage of the disease and in about seventy-five cases of disseminated Fusarium infection. Typical skin lesions may be painful red or violaceous nodules, the center of which often becomes ulcerated and covered by a black eschar. The multiple necrotizing lesions are often observed on the trunk and the extremities. Onychomycosis most commonly due to F. oxysporum or F. solani has been reported. The onychomycosis may be of several types: distal and lateral subungual (DLSO), white superficial (WSO), and proximal subungual (PSO). In proximal subungual onychomycosis there may be associated leukonychia and/or periungual inflammation. Patients with Fusarium onychomycosis have been cured following therapy with itraconazole, terbinafine, ciclopirox olamine lacquer, or topical antifungal agent. In other instances nail avulsion plus antifungal therapy has been successful. In patients with hematologic malignancy or bone marrow transplant, who may experience prolonged or severe neutropenia during the course of therapy, the skin and nails should be carefully examined and consideration given to treating potential infection sites that may serve as portals for systemic dissemination. When disseminated Fusarium infection is present therapy with antifungal agents has generally been disappointing with the chances of a successful resolution being enhanced if the neutropenia can be corrected in a timely manner.

How Mold Effects Us

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After pollens, molds are the leading cause of outdoor airborne allergies, which can recur year-round. Some of the most common symptoms of those sensitive to molds include nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, cold and flu-like symptoms, rashes, conjunctivitis, inability to concentrate, and fatigue. Mold exposure has also been associated with asthma onset. Symptoms usually disappear when the mold is removed. However, under certain conditions, exposure to mold can cause serious health problems. Some people with chronic illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, for example, may develop mold infections in their lungs. Also, some people exposed to large amounts of mold at work, such as farmers working with moldy hay, may develop even more severe reactions, including fever and shortness of breath. Some molds are toxic, producing chemicals called “mycotoxins,” which in large doses may affect human health, usually by causing allergy-like symptoms such as watery eyes or eye irritation, runny nose and sneezing or nasal congestion, wheezing and difficulty breathing, aggravation of asthma, coughing, itching, or rashes.

Other health problems that have been linked to mold exposure involve the odors produced by mold “volatiles” during the degradation of substrates. These have been discovered to irritate mucous membranes, and they have been associated with a number of symptoms from headaches and nausea to fatigue in individuals exposed to them. For those suffering from multiple chemical sensitivities, the simple presence of these microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) can trigger a reaction just as strong and serious as exposure to chemical VOCs. Fungi or microorganisms related to them may cause other health problems similar to allergy. Some kinds of Aspergillus especially may cause several different illnesses, including both infections and allergy. These fungi may lodge in the airways or a distant part of the lung and grow until they form a compact sphere known as a “fungus ball.” In people with lung damage or serious underlying illnesses, Aspergillus may grasp the opportunity to invade and actually infect the lungs or the whole body.

In some individuals, exposure to these fungi can also lead to asthma or to an illness known as “allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.” This latter condition, which occurs occasionally in people with asthma, is characterized by wheezing, low-grade fever, and coughing up of brown-flecked masses or mucous plugs. Skin testing, blood tests, x-rays, and examination of the sputum for fungi can help establish the diagnosis. Corticosteroid drugs are usually effective in treating this reaction; immunotherapy (allergy shots) is not helpful. The occurrence of allergic aspergillosis suggests that other fungi might cause similar respiratory conditions. Inhalation of spores from fungus-like bacteria, called “actinomycetes,” and from mold can cause a lung disease called “hypersensitivity pneumonitis.” This condition is often associated with specific occupations. For example, farmer’s lung disease results from inhaling spores growing in moldy hay and grains in silos. Occasionally, “hypersensitivity pneumonitis” develops in people who live or work where an air conditioning or a humidifying unit that is contaminated with these spores emits them.

The symptoms of “hypersensitivity pneumonitis” may resemble those of a bacterial or viral infection such as the flu. Bouts of chills, fever, weakness, muscle pains, cough, and shortness of breath develop 4 to 8 hours after exposure to the offending organism. The symptoms gradually disappear when the source of exposure is removed and the area properly ventilated. If it is not removed, workers having to be in those contaminated areas must wear a protective mask with a filter capable of removing spores or change jobs. If “hypersensitivity pneumonitis” is allowed to progress, it can lead to serious heart and lung problems. Also, air with a high concentration of fungal spores of a number of different types of molds may contain toxins that, when breathed over a long period of time, may result in a kind of poisoning. Stachybotrys atra, a mold that is commonly found on wet cellulose products (for example, drywall) and is causing growing concern among physicians, is one of these molds. In one recent study, it was linked to lung bleeding in infants. This mold has also been linked to sudden infant death syndrome and to central nervous system symptoms such as personality changes, sleep disorders, and memory loss.

Sick Building Syndrome

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Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a term commonly used for non-specific symptoms that are temporally related to occupancy of a particular building. When building-related symptoms are characteristic of a specific clinical entity, they are called Building Related Illness (BRI). These illnesses are varied, and include Legionnaires’ disease, building related hypersensitivity pneumonitis, building-related asthma, and others.

SBS symptoms include mucous membrane irritation (cough, scratchy throat, stuffy sinuses, and itchy eyes), headache, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other non-specific symptoms. The causes of SBS vary with the building and its occupants. SBS was once called “Tight Building Syndrome” and was considered to be a result of excess tightening of buildings in response to energy use concerns. However, many buildings with an excess of symptoms among the occupants are well ventilated. Still, increase in ventilation rates is often the “cure” for the problem.

Some people consider that SBS is caused not by the physical environment, but, rather, by psychosocial factors. Gender, lack of control, poor management, too much work, too little work, perceived housekeeping quality, and many other social factors have been blamed for the symptoms. In some cases, psychosocial factors may be the major cause of complaints. However, clearly, in some cases, environmental factors are at fault. For example, paper dust, and photocopier use have both been related to increases in complaints in a dose-dependent way. An excess of volatile organic compounds have been blamed for SBS symptoms. However, one study attributed this effect to the perception of odors at VOC concentrations far below those that would be likely to have an effect. These authors discuss the possibility that reactive chemistry might produce irritants that might be responsible for some symptoms.

Mold contamination has clearly been related to cases of BRI. However, its relationship to SBS is less clear. A Swedish study documented that dampness in residential buildings was associated with SBS symptoms with symptoms increasing with the number of dampness indicators present. Whether or not mold growth was responsible for these symptoms remains unknown. An extremely interesting study exposed people to measured doses of airborne fungal spores from growth on building materials. In this study, symptoms were similar among the two fungi studied AND for the placebo tests, indicating no specific effect of the spores. Mycotoxins have not been measured in quantities sufficient to cause the normal SBS symptoms, and the data regarding the role of mycotoxins in indoor air remain equivocal.

Most Common Mold Symptoms

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Mold allergies are easily treatable when properly diagnosed, so it is important for individuals who suspect their symptoms may be related to mold to consult with an allergy specialist or a physician to determine an appropriate course of treatment. Taking steps such as repairing water leaks and installing dehumidifiers in the home can also help to hinder mold growth and relieve mold allergy symptoms. Understanding what causes mold allergies and taking preventative measures to avoid exposure are essential in managing symptoms.

Itching Eyes

Itching eyes are a common allergic symptom that can develop following exposure to mold spores, pet dander and seasonal pollens. Individuals who experience itching eyes during wet or humid weather or when moisture levels are high inside the home may be suffering from mold allergy symptoms.

Stuffy Nose & Post Nasal Drip

Nasal congestion is a common mold allergy symptom that is often triggered after periods of wet weather or when an individual is exposed to mold spores in the home. When nasal stuffiness occurs, it is often accompanied by postnasal drip, a condition in which nasal secretions run down the back of the throat. Additional symptoms of postnasal drip include bad breath and coughing.

Itching Throat

Individuals with mold allergies may also experience an itching sensation in the throat. Itching throat symptoms are typically caused by postnasal drip, but can also be a symptom of a serious allergic reaction that can lead to throat swelling if left untreated. It is important for sufferers to seek medical attention if itching throat symptoms are present to ensure prompt treatment.

Sinus Headaches

Mold spores can cause the sinuses to become congested, which in turn can trigger sinus headaches in individuals with mold allergies. Sinus headaches cause pain and pressure in the forehead and sinus cavities. In certain cases, sinus pressure can also cause tooth and ear pain. Sinus headaches tend to worsen when lying down.

Exacerbated Asthma Symptoms

Individuals with mold allergies who also suffer from asthma may experience exacerbated asthma symptoms when exposed to mold. Asthma symptoms include chest tightness, wheezing and coughing. Anyone experiencing a severe asthma attack following possible mold exposure should seek immediate medical attention.

Long & Short Term Effects of Mold

The type and severity of health effects that result from mold exposure is widely variable among different locations, from person to person and over time. Although difficult to predict, exposure to molds growing indoors is most often associated with the following allergy symptoms:

Nasal and sinus congestion
Cough/sore throat
Chest tightness
Dyspnea (breathing difficulty)
Asthma (or exacerbation of it)
Epistaxis (nosebleed)
Upper respiratory tract infections
Headache
Skin and eye irritation

Long-term exposure to indoor molds is certainly unhealthy to anyone, but some groups will develop more severe symptoms sooner than others, including:

Infants and children
Elderly people
Individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies and/or asthma

Some indoor molds are capable of producing extremely potent toxins (mycotoxins) that are lipid-soluble and readily absorbed by the intestinal lining, airways, and skin. These agents, usually contained in the fungal spores, have toxic effects ranging from short-term irritation to immunosuppression and cancer.

More severe symptoms that could result from continuous human exposure to indoor mycotoxigenic molds include:

Cancer (aflatoxin best characterized as potential human carcinogen)
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis/pulmonary fibrosis
Pulmonary injury/hemosiderosis (bleeding)
Neurotoxicity
Hematologic and immunologic disorders
Hepatic, endocrine and/or renal toxicities
Pregnancy, gastrointestinal and/or cardiac conditions

It is important to notice that the clinical relevance of mycotoxins under realistic airborne exposure levels is not fully established. Further, some or much of the supporting evidence for these other health effects is based on case studies rather than controlled studies, studies that have not yet been reproduced or involve symptoms that are subjective.