Do you suspect mold growth in your attic? Here are some signs you should look for.
Mold can originate in any part of your home, and you’re attic is no exception. Besides affecting the structural integrity of your home, mold can be harmful to your health. Mold needs moisture and dampness to grow. If left untreated, mold can spread quickly and wreak havoc on everything in it's path. In this article, we shall discuss the signs of mold growth in your attic.
Unsightly Stains
The most apparent sign of attic mold is unsightly stains on the walls or ceiling in the attic. Attic mold is often grey or black. Furthermore, dark-colored mold can be extremely toxic to human health. It is best to eliminate it as soon as possible.
Musty Odors
Another sign of mold in the attic is a musty and pungent odor. All types of mold give off some type of odor. However, any mold growing in your attic can have a pungent and musty odor that it almost resembles the smell of urine. Have you ever smelled a damp newspaper, 48 hours after it has gotten wet? Attic mold smells exactly like that.
Patterns
Attics often remain dark, thus providing the perfect environment for mold to grow. Of all the types of mold, black mold is the quickest to spread. As it moves, it leaves strange patterns on the walls. The pattern that it leaves behind resembles a crescent moon. If you notice such a pattern in your attic, make sure to have the attic checked for mold as soon as possible.
Health Symptoms of Mold Exposure
As discussed above, if mold is left untreated, it can effect your health. Some of the most common symptoms of mold exposure are listed below.
- Coughing and sneezing
- Lethargy
- Itchiness in the eyes and on the skin
- Sore throat
- Asthma and other respiratory issues
Now that we have discussed the signs of mold growth, let’s discuss its causes:
Causes of Mold Growth in the Attic
As discussed above, to grow and thrive, mold needs humidity and moisture. In the attic, these two conditions are abundant, and it is quite easy for leaks and moisture to remain unnoticed. If left untreated, roof leaks can quickly lead to mold growth.
Some other issues can also lead to mold growth. Sometimes the attic floor is not properly insulated. Inadequate insulation allows warm air to find its way in, thus adding to the humidity in your attic. When the humidity increases, it can cause mold growth.
A Few Last Words
To recap, in the article above, we have discussed the signs of mold in the attic as well as the causes of attic mold. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, get your attic inspected right away. Also, conduct regular inspections of your attic for leakages, as leaks are one of the primary causes of mold growth. If you see or suspect mold in your attic, contact a professional to address the situation.
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