Mold in walls is a common occurrence in homes. While most molds are harmless, some types are dangerous to humans, especially if mold infestation exists.
Mold inside walls is even harder to detect because, at times, it has no visible signs. This guide sheds light on how to test for mold inside walls.
You will learn some simple methods to look for mold and guarantee a clean and healthy environment inside your home. So, let’s start.
Why You Should Test For Mold Inside Walls
Besides being an eyesore, mold is known to cause allergies, asthma, or even respiratory problems. It is also a symptom of an even greater issue, such as a leakage or insufficient airflow. Knowing how to test for mold in walls is key to addressing the problem before it worsens.
Signs You May Have Molds Inside Walls
There may be tell-tale signs that indicate the existence of mold in your home. These include:
- The earthy or musky smell in some of the rooms.
- Discoloration or staining of wall or ceiling.
- Peeling paint or wallpaper.
- Warped or soft drywall.
- Sneezing or coughing that worsens during or after exposure to an allergen.
If any of these sound familiar, then it’s a pretty convincing sign that you have a mold problem.
How To Test For Mold Inside Walls
Now that you are almost sure of mold presence in your home, it is time to confirm it. There are several methods, depending on how invasive you want to be.
Some are easy to do on your own, while others need professional help. Let’s discuss some of the most used procedures of mold identification.
Visual Inspection
The first step in how to test for mold inside walls is a basic visual check. Begin by visually searching for what could be mold form.
The problem is you will not always have a chance to see the mold within the walls and in the insulation, but you might witness signs of this problem on the outside. Look for:
- Large or small black, dark green, or brown colors.
- Water rings or marks.
- Cracked or bubbling paint.
Do not miss wall edges close to windows, doors, and pipes where they can drip. If you spot anything suspicious, it is time to take a second look.
Smell Test
Mold produces a musty odor, which is a good indicator that something is awry. Use your nose if you think there might be mold behind your walls.
A musty smell in a room can indicate mold growth behind the walls or in the insulation. Areas affected by water damage or poor ventilation are ideal breeding grounds for mold; pay special attention to them.
Use A Moisture Meter
Testing the drywall or studs for mold is one of the best ways to locate it within the walls. Mold loves damp conditions, so a moisture meter can help determine if the area has excessive moisture. If the meter reads high moisture levels, mold may be present.
Moisture meters are sold at most hardware stores and online. To use one, you just need to press the sensor into the wall, and the meter will tell you the moisture content.
Check For Water Leaks
It is important to test for mold in case your house has a history of water leaks or flooding. A leak in your walls can create the ideal situation for mold growth. Check for leak signs around pipes, bathrooms, and kitchens. Also, inspect the roof and foundation for leaks that may allow mold to enter inside the walls.
If you’re not sure, you could use a thermal imaging camera. These cameras show temperature differentials and can detect moisture in the walls. If the camera finds cold spots where mold can grow, it means those cold spots are damp spots where mold can grow.
Cutting Into The Wall
If you have not yet found anything but still suspect mold, you may need to cut into the wall. This is an extreme method, but it will give you a clear look behind the wall’s surface. Cut a small piece of your drywall and see if you can find the mold.
If mold is found inside the walls, you may have to remove and replace moldy drywall. Additionally, you need to dry out the moisture source so that mold can’t return.
Now, it’s better to have a professional take a go at this specific thing because a lot could go wrong if not done right.
Professional Mold Testing
The most thorough way to be sure is to hire a professional to test for mold in walls. If you think there may be mold in areas you cannot access, hire experts who have specialized tools and plenty of experience.
They can collect air samples and ship them to a lab for analysis. This provides you with a clear picture of how bad the mold situation is in your home.
How To Test For Mold In Walls: DIY Vs. Professional Testing
Now that you know how to test for mold inside walls, the next question is whether to tackle the job yourself or call in a professional.
While DIY testing can be effective for mold testing on surfaces or detection of moisture concerns, a professional mold inspection is a more accurate option, particularly when trying to tackle mold in those hard-to-reach areas.
Final Thoughts
Mold in the walls is a serious problem, but with the right tools and planning, you can trace and correct it. Whether you choose to do a visual inspection, use a moisture meter, or call a professional, knowing how to test for mold in walls will help protect your home and health.
If you see mold, take quick action to clean it and fix what was creating the moisture. Your lungs will thank you, and so will your home.
Ready to protect your home from hidden mold and water issues? Pro-Spect offers professional mold inspections and testing with reliable and accurate results.
Why wait until it’s too late? The time to act is now, our skilled mold experts are waiting to hear from you.
Schedule an inspection with us today.