Know the Warning Signs During Mold Awareness Month

National Mold Awareness Month this September draws attention to recognizing the signs of mold, reducing moisture risks and knowing when professional remediation may be needed. The awareness effort comes as summer transitions into fall, when lingering humidity, seasonal storms and shifting temperatures can leave moisture in building areas that are easy to overlook.

Water-damaged materials can create conditions for mold growth within 48 to 72 hours, whether the moisture comes from a roof leak, plumbing problem, flood, condensation or sustained humidity. Mold may develop behind walls, beneath flooring or inside insulation before visible growth appears. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that mold exposure can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation.

“Mold risks vary from market to market, but the importance of awareness and quick action is universal,” said Alex Blair, CEO of RestoPros.

RestoPro advised watching for the following environmental red flags:

• Persistent musty odors: An earthy or musty smell may indicate mold growth, even when no visible patches are present.
• Discoloration or staining: Dark spots, water stains, bubbling paint or warped materials may point to moisture behind a wall, ceiling or floor.
• High indoor humidity: Relative humidity above 60% can create favorable conditions for mold. The EPA recommends keeping indoor levels ideally between 30% and 50%.
• A history of water damage: Materials can remain damp beneath the surface after a leak or flood appears to have dried.
• Possible health symptoms: Some people exposed to damp or moldy conditions may experience coughing, wheezing, a stuffy nose, irritated eyes or skin reactions that worsen indoors.

When one or more of these signs are present, facility managers should take the following steps to limit further moisture damage and better understand whether professional help is needed:

• Find the moisture source. Identify and repair leaks or humidity problems that may be contributing to mold growth.
• Avoid disturbing large or concealed areas. Scrubbing or spraying mold-affected areas may release spores into the air and spread contamination.
• Document the conditions. Photograph visible staining or damage, note where odors are strongest and record any recent leaks or flooding.
• Avoid painting or sealing over visible mold growth. Covering the affected area traps underlying moisture and leaves mold unaddressed.
• Know when to contact a professional. The EPA advises consulting an experienced remediation professional when mold covers more than approximately 10 square feet, follows extensive water damage or may be present inside walls, HVAC components or other difficult-to-access areas.