Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, sunshine, and oranges. But it’s also known for its rainy season. From June to September, the state gets an average of 50 inches of rain. That’s a lot of water!
If you live in Florida, it’s important to inspect your property during rainy season to make sure it’s in good shape. Otherwise, you could end up with a big, expensive problem.
How do you know if mold is growing in your home?
Consider the following when inspecting your home after excessive rain or storm:
🦠Visible mold growth: This is the most obvious sign of a mold problem. Look for black, green, white, or gray spots on walls, floors, or ceilings. Mold can also grow on fabrics, such as carpets and curtains, and on household items like books, papers, and furniture.
👃Musty odors: Mold has a distinct musty odor, which is often the first sign of a problem. If you smell a musty odor in your home, it’s likely that there is mold growing somewhere.
💦Water damage: Mold thrives in damp environments, so any areas that have experienced water damage should be inspected for mold growth. Look for discoloration, warping, or bubbling of walls or floors, as well as water stains. Don’t forget to check your window frames and if applicable, stucco cracks.
🤧Allergy symptoms: Exposure to mold can cause allergy-like symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. If you or anyone in your household experiences these symptoms, it’s possible that mold is present in your home.
🌡️High humidity levels: Florida’s warm and humid climate can create ideal conditions for mold growth. If your home has high humidity levels, it’s important to take steps to reduce moisture, such as using a dehumidifier or improving ventilation. Check your A/C Filters and schedule preventative maintenance for your A/C unit.
Where are areas most likely to have mold growth?
Sometimes the growth may be hidden behind drywall.
🛀Bathrooms: Bathrooms are prone to mold growth due to the presence of moisture from showers, baths, and sinks. Inspect areas such as shower stalls, bathtub enclosures, grout lines, and around sinks and toilets for any signs of mold.
🧑🍳Kitchens: Similar to bathrooms, kitchens can be susceptible to mold due to cooking activities and the use of water. Check under sinks, around faucets, behind appliances, and inside cabinets for any signs of mold.
🏠Crawl spaces: These areas tend to be more humid and have reduced ventilation, creating a favorable environment for mold growth. Inspect walls, floors, and corners for any signs of mold or musty odors.
🏠Attics: Poor ventilation and insulation issues can lead to moisture buildup in attics, making them potential areas for mold growth. Look for signs of mold on insulation, rafters, and sheathing.
🌬️Air conditioning systems: Moisture can accumulate in air conditioning units, providing a breeding ground for mold. Regularly inspect the drip pans, condensate lines, and air filters for mold growth or excessive moisture.
🪟Exterior walls: Heavy rainfall and humidity in tropical climates can lead to moisture intrusion through exterior walls. Check for signs of water stains, discoloration, or peeling paint, as these may indicate water infiltration and potential mold growth.
🏘️Roof and gutters: Inspect the roof for any damaged or missing shingles that could allow water penetration. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning properly to prevent water accumulation around the foundation, which can contribute to mold growth.
If you’re worried that your home or office has potentially toxic mold or have unexplained health symptoms it’s important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further growth and potential health risks. Consider contacting Bio Pro Mold & Inspection to assess the problem.
Bio Pro is a test-only company providing unbiased Mold Assessments, Water Damage Inspections, and Clearance Tests throughout Florida.