The short answer
Professional Tools for Detection
Local water damage pros use specific instruments to locate moisture and mold you cannot see. A non-invasive moisture meter can measure the water content in materials without causing damage. An infrared camera, or thermal imaging camera, detects temperature differences that often reveal damp areas behind surfaces.
For more detailed analysis, a professional might recommend air sampling or surface sampling. These tests collect particles from the air or from a surface to be analyzed in a lab. This can help identify the types and concentrations of mold spores present in your home environment.
- Moisture Meters: Pin-type and pinless meters detect dampness in walls and floors.
- Thermal Imaging Cameras: Show cool, wet spots as different colors on a screen.
- Borescopes: Small cameras on flexible cables to view inside wall cavities.
- Hygrometers: Measure relative humidity levels in the air of a room.
- Air Sampling Pumps: Capture airborne spores for laboratory analysis.
- Surface Sampling: Tape lifts or swabs taken from a suspect area for testing.
Common Places to Check
Certain areas in a home are more prone to hidden mold due to frequent moisture exposure. Check behind appliances like refrigerators and washing machines where supply lines can leak. Inspect around windows and under sinks where condensation or small drips often go unnoticed for long periods.
Other key areas include behind shower and tub surrounds, under carpeting and padding, and inside attics or crawl spaces. Cooling systems, plumbing fixtures, and areas with poor ventilation can also be constant sources of moisture that lead to hidden problems.
What to Do If You Suspect Mold
If you suspect hidden mold, avoid disturbing the area. Poking holes in walls or tearing out materials can release a large number of spores into your living space. Limit your exposure, especially if you have allergies or respiratory issues, and consider having the area inspected professionally.
A qualified mold assessment professional can determine the extent and type of mold present. They can provide a written report detailing their findings and recommendations for remediation. This report can also be useful if you need to file an insurance claim for the related water damage.
Addressing the Underlying Water Issue
Finding and removing the mold is only half the solution. You must find and fix the source of the moisture that allowed it to grow. This could be a plumbing leak, a roof leak, poor ventilation, or groundwater intrusion. Until the water source is stopped, mold will likely return.
A water damage professional can help locate and stop the active leak. They can also perform the necessary structural drying to remove all residual moisture from building materials. This comprehensive approach is key to solving a hidden mold problem for good.
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Call Now (520) 286-8912Frequently asked questions
Can I test for hidden mold myself?
Home test kits are available, but their accuracy can be limited. They may not help you locate the exact source or extent of the problem. For a reliable assessment, especially with health concerns or potential insurance claims, a professional inspection is often the better choice.
Is hidden mold dangerous to my health?
Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory symptoms in sensitive individuals. If you or a family member feel unwell and suspect mold, it is important to limit exposure and see a doctor. The health risk depends on the mold type and your sensitivity.
Will my homeowners insurance cover this?
Coverage depends on the source of the water damage that caused the mold. Sudden, accidental events like a burst pipe are more likely to be covered than long-term neglect. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy details and document the damage thoroughly.