We get calls often from homeowners and business owners that see small amounts of mold or have had water damage from a flood or burst pipe. Their concern, of course, is whether the mold is insignificant or needs removal.

Here’s the unfortunate truth about mold: where there’s a little, there’s usually a lot. That means if you see or smell mold, there’s very likely more of it that you don’t see. So, what are some areas you might find mold in your home?

Here are six of the most common areas that could need mold remediation:

1. In areas with both water and heat. Think bathrooms and laundry rooms. If you’re not ventilating properly or there’s a leak somewhere, you can bet there’s mold lurking somewhere. Another area that often grows mold is the improperly sealed joint between walls and windows, which can trap moisture and heat from outside elements and cause mold growth behind the walls and in the joint.
2. Flooded areas.Burst pipe? Leaky roof or window? Water seeping into your home’s foundation? Any flooded areas or areas of the home that have been wet for more than a day or so are breeding grounds for mold. Think the underside of carpeted flooring or wet furniture that doesn’t fully dry after flooding.
3. Near appliances.Some of the worst culprits for mold are in the spaces that house washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers that have leaked. Mold might be growing under the floor covering or behind the wall.
4. In high humidity areas. Humidity above around 60% can cause mold growth, so one of the obvious trouble spots is in the bathroom…behind tiles, in drywall, on the ceiling, and on windowsills and jams. If you don’t use air conditioning and live in a humid climate, mold is likely going to be a problem in multiple spots within your house, but especially in the bathroom.
5. In poorly ventilated areas. When moisture builds up, mold grows. Attics and basements can be problematic in particular, because of their tendency to lack ventilation. Basements are often damp, too, which is a recipe for mold.
6. In dusty spaces. You probably didn’t realize that dust is mold’s best friend, and can transport mold spores from place to place in the home. Mold can even grow on dust.

Mold remediation is not a DIY job.

It needs to be done correctly (in other words, don’t assume using bleach and a sponge is sufficient!) to ensure you’re actually removing the mold, preventing it from spreading, and restoring your home to its previous condition. Here’s what you need to know about AOA Cleaning & Restoration:

• We are licensed as a mold remediation contractor, certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and the Restoration Science Academy.
• Our team is trained on best mold removal practices.
• We can work with insurance companies and have lots of experience doing so.
• We’ll educate you about mold prevention so you can avoid an unfortunate situation going forward.

Call us at 201-848-8600 if you see mold somewhere in your home and would like us to take a look!

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