Mold is a species of fungus that is found not only in Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic but all over the United States and the entire world. A mold inspection should be at the top of your list if you are considering a house in Maryland, Washington D.C., Delaware, or Virginia.
Mold can be found both outdoors and inside of homes and other enclosed structures. Mold thrives in conditions where a high level of warmth and humidity exists but it is a hearty species that can survive a range of temperatures. Mold is so common that most people are unknowingly exposed to it on a daily basis due to the fact that spores can be found on in the air and a variety of surfaces. Mold spores cannot be seen without magnification and problems can arise when people are exposed to large quantities of mold spores either by inhalation or ingestion.
Mold can make its way into a house through air conditioning, windows, doors, and it can even be brought indoors by sticking to articles of clothing when in the air. Mold is so hardy that it can grow on a variety of surfaces such as wood, carpeting, cardboard, wallpaper, tiles, and many other common surfaces found in the home. Mold growth is promoted in high moisture areas so they are mostly found inside in bathrooms and basements. Homes that have been flooded or have leaky pipes, roofs, or windows are at risk for mold infestation. Many people are familiar with black mold indoors but there are many other types of mold that pose health issues.
Exposure to mold spores can bring about a variety of symptoms especially in children, the elderly, people with respiratory conditions, and people who have compromised or weak immune systems. Some people have serious allergic reactions which include: eye irritation, shortness of breath, headaches, nasal congestion, and coughing. Mold can also agitate asthma symptoms in people who have asthma and recent studies have been shown that it may promote asthma development in children. Some people who are exposed may think that they are suffering from a common cold or allergy and never realize the root cause is mold.
If you have any leaks in your Maryland home you should consider a mold inspection. If your home was flooded and not professionally cleaned you should call us immediately for mold testing. Even if there aren’t any leaks or extensive water damage in your home, a professional home inspection for mold will give you a peace of mind. Contact us for prompt and professional service in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and Washington D.C.
