What To Do If You Smell Mold

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Experts say there are over 100,000 types of mold

If you have identified a mold smell in your business or home in Norridge/Harwood Heights then further action on your part is required. While mold can sometimes be difficult to find with a visual inspection, you may actually be able to smell mold in your residence. 

Why Mold Smells

Mold isn't a pleasant odor, but what exactly is it that makes mold smell the way it does? The odors caused by mold are caused by chemicals called Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds (MVOCs) that are released as mold grows. Depending on the type of mold in your residence or business, you may experience any of the following smells that mold can be the cause of:

• Musty or earthy
• Oil or Grease
• Cat Urine
• Dirty Socks
• Mowed Grass
• Locker Room
• Alcohol

Where Mold Hides

Mold doesn't have to be seen to exist, which is why it's important to take these smells seriously. If undetected moisture builds up in your residence or business, mold can grow and cause damage to the building. Common mold hiding spots in your commercial building include:

• Carpet Padding
• Ceiling Tiles
• Drip Pans
• Wallpaper
• HVAC systems

What To Do About a Mold Smell

Once mold is suspected through an odor, contact a mold remediation expert like SERVPRO of Norridge/Harwood Heights. These experts know the areas to search for mold and have the right equipment like infrared cameras that can show moisture in a building's structure.

When you suspect there might be mold growth in your commercial building or home due to complaints of a mold smell, it is important you act quickly. This will be prevent the mold from spreading to other parts of your building or home.