The short answer
Look and Smell
Begin with a visual check of common mold spots. Mold often appears as black, green, or white patches on walls, ceilings, or grout. Look for water stains, peeling paint, or bubbling wallpaper, which signal moisture problems. A musty smell is a strong clue, even if you don't see anything yet.
Pay extra attention to areas that stay damp: shower corners, under sinks, around tubs, and near air conditioning units. Check window frames for condensation and the baseboards for discoloration. If you find visible mold, you can clean small patches yourself, but larger areas need professional help.
Use a Flashlight and a Moisture Meter
A bright flashlight helps you spot subtle mold growth in dark corners or behind furniture. Shine it along baseboards, door frames, and ceiling edges. You can also use a screwdriver to gently probe wood or drywall for soft spots, which indicate rot from moisture.
A moisture meter is a useful tool for detecting hidden dampness. You can buy one at a hardware store. It measures the moisture level in materials like drywall or wood. Readings above 20 percent suggest a moisture problem that could support mold growth. Use it on walls near leaks or in areas with a musty odor.
- Check under carpets and behind furniture
- Inspect attic and crawl space for leaks
- Look at the water heater and pipes
- Examine the roof for missing shingles
- Feel for dampness on drywall and wood
Do a Simple Tape Test
You can collect a sample of visible mold using clear tape. Press the sticky side against the mold spot, then lift it away. Tape it to a clear plastic bag or a piece of glass. This preserves the sample for closer inspection or for showing to a professional.
A tape test can help you see if the mold is active, but it won't tell you the species. Some molds are more harmful than others, but any mold should be addressed. If you have health concerns, like allergies or asthma, avoid touching the mold and wear gloves and a mask.
When to Call the Pros
If you find a large area of mold (more than a few square feet) or if the mold keeps coming back, it's time to get professional help. The pros can identify the moisture source and recommend remediation. They have specialized equipment to detect hidden moisture and mold without invasive probing.
A professional inspection can also include post-remediation clearance testing to confirm that mold is gone after cleanup. If you live in Layton, you can find pros who offer moisture mapping and structural drying services. Remember, your health and home's structure are important, so don't delay if you suspect a serious mold problem.
- Large mold patches on multiple surfaces
- Mold returns after cleaning
- Musty smell persists
- You or family members have respiratory symptoms
- Water damage or leaks are visible
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Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can I use bleach to test for mold?
Bleach can clean visible mold, but it doesn't help you test for hidden mold. It may also damage surfaces. Instead, use a moisture meter or tape test. If you need to identify the mold species, you'll need a lab test, which is not a do-it-yourself process.
Is a moisture meter expensive?
A basic moisture meter often costs between $30 and $100. Prices depend on the brand and features. You can also rent one from a tool rental store. Using it is simple: press the pins or sensor against a surface and read the moisture level.
What if I can't find the mold but still smell it?
A musty smell without visible mold often indicates mold inside walls or under floors. Check for water stains or dampness nearby. If you can't locate the source, consider hiring a professional to do a moisture mapping inspection. They can find hidden moisture without tearing into your home.