A Moldy House After a Rainstorm May Be Evidence of a Leak

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in West Norriton, PA

Black mold in your West Norriton, PA, home needs to be removed right away. Any delay in mold cleanup could just make the problem worse.
Of course, you first need to know what is causing the mold growth. If mold appears every time it rains, then you may have a problem with your roof. Before you contact your local contractor to fix the roof, however, you should figure out if you actually have a mold problem.

Is it Mold Or Mildew?

A musty odor in your home does not automatically indicate mold growth. There are other fairly harmless causes of musty smells, including:

• Volatile organic compounds emitted from burning fuel
  
• Chemicals from furniture and carpets
  
• Pet odors
  
  

Even if you do spot a green fungus in your home, you may have mildew rather than black mold. Mold and mildew can seem similar, but mold is more dangerous. Mildew looks downy or powdery and typically appears on the surface of items. This makes it relatively easy to clean.
Mold, however, is thicker than mildew. This fungus can also penetrate items and damage the structure of your home. You thus should not attempt to remove it on your own. Instead, you should rely on a mold remediation company.

Why Is Mold Growing There?
Mold needs moisture to grow. If you do determine that mold is present in your house, you should check to see if you have a moisture problem. Mold damage near the windows, for instance, could be evidence of condensation.
Your home may also become moldy every time it rains. This could be a sign of a roof or foundation leak that is causing water to seep into your attic or basement. The mold will continue to return unless you fix the leak.
There are many possible causes of musty smells in your home. Pet odors and mildew are not that harmful. However, black mold is a serious problem that must be addressed. If the mold intensifies after a rainstorm, then you may have a leak in your roof.