What Are the Signs of Mold in Commercial Buildings?
Does your business suffer from mold problems? Worried about the health of your employees?
Mold is everywhere, and we often don’t think about its effects. However, mold can lead to respiratory problems as well as other harmful issues. If you own a commercial building, you need to know the signs of mold so you can fight it before it becomes a huge problem for your workplace.
Learn about the signs of mold and the dangers of too much mold by reading our guide here.
Visible Mold Growth
If you spot mold growth, it’s important to take swift action. Mold can spread quickly and cause health problems and damage to the building. To identify mold, look for patches that are green, black, or white that may have fuzzy spores on them, as well as areas where moisture or humidity is present.
Mold can be a serious problem in commercial buildings, so swift action is essential for the health and safety of those who inhabit the building.
Lingering Musty Odors
Lingering musty odors can be one of the first warning signs of mold growth, as mold itself is not very easy to visibly spot. Different types of mold emit different odors, and some odors are stronger than others, so lingering musty odors can be a sign of possible mold growth. Mold growth is often associated with damp and difficult-to-reach areas, making the smell an obvious indicator of a problem.
Warps and Discoloration in Walls
Warps and discolorations in walls are key early indicators of mold. Warped walls may be caused by a range of issues, but if the warpage is accompanied by discoloration, then it can signify an underlying mold infestation. If the color of the walls has changed from its original hue, then this could show an excessive buildup of moisture in the air due to poor air circulation or insulation problems.
Although warps and discoloration of walls do not necessarily indicate the presence of mold, they should be further investigated as these symptoms could be a sign of something much more serious.
Water Damage
Mold is a common problem in commercial buildings, especially those with water damage. The presence of moisture can create an ideal environment for mold growth. Additionally, peeling wallpaper and unexplained water damage is common and could indicate a mold outbreak.
If you detect any of these signs in your commercial building, it’s important to contact a professional so that the mold can be removed and any water damage can be properly treated or eliminated. Professional mold removers can test for mold and determine the extent of the problem.
History Of Past Flooding
When it comes to the history of past flooding, it is important to pay attention to the types of mold. Not only can mold damage the structure of a building, but it can also pose health risks to those using the building. As a result, property managers should be on the lookout for common signs of mold.
It is also important to pay attention to ventilation systems, as the recurrence of high relative humidity levels can indicate a risk for new mold growth. Lastly, areas such as basements and other areas with low levels of sunlight are often also most susceptible to mold growth. By paying attention to these signs, property managers can detect mold and take steps to prevent it from spreading.
Health Problems
Mold is one of the most common health problems found in commercial buildings and can have detrimental effects on humans who come into contact with it. Symptoms of mold health problems include severe respiratory issues, headaches, nausea, and even allergic reactions.
Mold spores can also increase asthma and infection risks. These are all indicators that mold growth is present, and it is important to call a professional to inspect the building if any of these signs of mold is found.
Infestation in HVAC Systems
Inadequate maintenance of HVAC systems can lead to mold growth in the ductwork, air filters, and air handlers. HVAC system issues such as condensation buildup, inadequate airflow, and blocked air ducts can create ideal conditions for mold to grow.
If mold is present in a commercial building, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Mold removal and HVAC system inspections and repairs should be completed right away to help protect the building’s occupants.
Seeking Professional Mold Services
Mold can be a very serious issue in commercial buildings, resulting in costly damage and health issues for employees and customers. If a building shows signs of mold, it’s important to seek professional mold services to ensure it is properly detected, identified, and removed. There are several signs to look for when identifying mold in commercial buildings.
Spotting any of these signs is a surefire indication that the building contains mold and therefore it’s important to contact your local indoor air quality testing professional to inspect the premises and further diagnose the problem.
Keep Your Commercial Buildings Safe, Clean, And Healthy Today!
Mold growth in commercial buildings can quickly become costly and dangerous. Signs of mold include unusual musty odors, visible mold patches, water spots, dampness, and condensation build-up. Identifying and understanding these tell-tale signs is invaluable in proactively addressing mold issues. Businesses can protect their investments by actively monitoring for signs of mold and quickly taking action if any potential hazards are found.
For more articles on commercial real estate and more, check out the rest of our blog.
