Skip to content 
Black mold can often be missed by homeowners and many companies forget to share about the potential presence of it in your home. This guide will help you understand what to look for and what you should do if you think you may have an issue around any of your windows or doors.
Black Mold Basics
Here are three must-know things about black mold:
- Black mold around windows and doors can be a sign of more extensive moisture damage: While visible black mold around windows and doors is a clear indication of a moisture problem, it may also suggest more extensive damage within your home’s walls and insulation. Homeowners need to take immediate action to find and address the underlying cause of moisture problems to prevent further mold growth and more significant structural damage.
- Black mold can cause health problems: While most types of mold are harmless, some strains, such as black mold, can cause serious health problems for those exposed to them. These health issues may include respiratory issues, skin irritation, fatigue, headaches, and even cognitive impairment in some cases. It is essential to take immediate action to remove the mold and repair the underlying cause of moisture problems to ensure the health and safety of everyone in the home.
- Removing black mold can be a challenging and dangerous task: Black mold removal is not a DIY project for homeowners. It is best left to certified professionals who have the experience, tools, and protective gear to handle the hazardous material safely. Disturbing black mold can release spores into the air, potentially causing respiratory problems and other health issues. Professional mold remediation services can help to contain and remove the mold safely and effectively, reducing the risk of further damage and ensuring the health and safety of everyone in the home.
Testing for Black Mold
Testing for black mold in your home can be done in several ways:
- Visual Inspection: The first step in testing for black mold is to conduct a visual inspection of the affected area. Check for any visible signs of mold growth, such as black, green, or brown spots on walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces.
- Smell Test: Black mold has a distinct musty odor. If you detect a strong, musty smell in your home, it could be a sign of mold growth.
- DIY Mold Test Kits: DIY mold test kits are readily available at hardware stores, home improvement stores, and online. These kits usually involve taking air or surface samples and sending them to a lab for analysis.
- Professional Mold Testing: It is recommended that you hire a professional mold inspector if you suspect that you have black mold in your home. A professional will conduct a thorough inspection, take air and surface samples, and provide you with a detailed report of their findings.
In any case, if you discover black mold in your home, it is essential to take immediate action to remove it and prevent further growth. Think you might need testing? We’re here to help! Give us a call at (410) 280-2657 or visit our website and send us a message.
When to Call a Professional
If you suspect the presence of black mold in your home, it’s important to take prompt action to protect your health and the health of others in the household. While minor mold problems can often be addressed with simple cleaning methods, more significant mold growth requires professional intervention. Here are some signs that it’s time to call a professional for help with black mold:
- Visible growth: If you can see visible mold growth on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces, it’s time to call a professional. Black mold can be difficult to identify, but if you see mold growth that appears black or dark green, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
- Strong musty odor: Mold often emits a strong, musty odor. If you notice this odor in your home, it’s likely that mold is present and growing.
- Health symptoms: Exposure to black mold can cause a range of health symptoms, including respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If you or anyone in your household experiences these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention and have your home inspected by a professional.
- Water damage: If your home has experienced water damage, whether from a flood, leaky roof, or plumbing issue, it’s important to have the affected area inspected for mold growth.
If any of these signs are present, it’s best to call a professional mold remediation company to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Trying to address a significant mold problem on your own can be dangerous and may not fully resolve the issue.
If your mold is caused by old and worn out windows, contact Window Depot of Annapolis today. Mold over time can break down the seal and frames of windows leading to additional issues in your walls, insulation and even your siding if it goes unaddressed. Window Depot of Annapolis’s professional installers can determine the condition of your windows and let you know if a professional mold removal company can help or if window replacement is the right solution. Don’t wait, give us a call for a free quote today!
