Do you know how to identify mold in the crawl space? If not, keep reading this article. To grow and survive, mold needs humidity, moisture and an organic food source. These three conditions are common in a crawlspace, and therefore, mold spores can really thrive in there. Whether it is in the crawlspace or any other part of your home, mold is detrimental to your house’s structure as well as your health. If you detect mold in the crawl space, you need to do some damage control and call professional help as soon as possible. But how do you detect mold? Here are some signs you need to look out for: Signs of Mold

• Cool air entering your living space through the floor from the crawlspace.
• Unsightly stains and discolorations appearing on the baseboards.
• Pungent and musty odors coming from the crawlspace. You must remember that mold odor resembles that of a wet basement.
• An increase in the number of pests and insects that enter your living space. You may even notice animal activity near the crawlspace. In the event that animals gain access to the crawlspace, they can damage it and also bring moisture into the crawlspace.
• The insulation is either missing or sagging. Both of them are signs that mold damage has occurred within the crawlspace.
• If the water table often remains elevated, you should have the crawlspace checked for mold growth.

Once you have detected mold growth, you need to call a local mold remediation company, such as S.T.O.P. Ways to Prevent Mold Damage in the Crawlspace To prevent mold growth in the first place, here is what you have to do:

• An endurance bio barrier should be replaced throughout the crawlspace. This barrier can prevent mold damage in the crawlspace for a long time.
• Make sure the dryers are vented outside the house instead of the crawlspace. Venting them into the crawlspace can easily pave the way for mold growth.
• Make sure the HVAC ducts are checked regularly. Similarly, the foundation walls should be checked for holes and cracks, for if they are left ignored, they will allow moisture to enter.
• The downspouts should channel at least 6 feet away from your house. If they aren’t, the water will accumulate, which can make its way into the crawlspace.
• Make sure there is ample ventilation in the crawlspace. There should be two vents on either side of the crawlspace.
• Have the crawlspace properly encapsulated, and place a dehumidifier in the middle to control the amount of moisture in the crawlspace, thus preventing mold damage.

Now you know how to detect mold and prevent it in the first place. If mold damage has taken place, make sure you reach out to a professional mold restoration company such as S.T.O.P.  It serves in North Las Vegas, Whitney Ranch, Sky Canyon, Centennial Hills, and many other areas. For emergency cleaning services, dial 702-803-3094 now.