How do you know if what you have is mold
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How do you get rid of the black areas (maybe mold?) under mirrors?
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Mold spores are everywhere. So the issue is, do you have a mold problem? Industrial Hygienists are professionals that can come to your home and test for mold and give you a professional opinion for about $2000. Or if you see something which looks like mold, you can get wipe tests kits are Lowes and home Depot for about $10. Lab fees are something like $50 to process the test kits.
They also sell test kits from $50 to $100 to test air quality depending on how many rooms you want to test. You also have to get an outside control sample. Basically, the idea is that if you have more airborne spores inside your home that outside of your home, you might have a problem somewhere inside the house where mold is growing. It does not however remedy the cause, which is where professionals can come in to help. Also, these tests focus on mold spore counts, not mold gases. Which means that if the mold inside a drywall cavity or in a crawl space, you might smell mold gasses, but not be exposed to the spores.
Almost all crawl spaces in moist areas will have elevated mold compared to the outside air. And it is almost impossible to "clear" 100%. But there are things you can do to reduce Crawlspace mold, such as install a vapor barrier, and properly vent the space. Keep it as dry as possible, and seal the wood.
Mold likes dark moist places above 70 degrees. So, look behind and under your Fridge, Washer and dryer, Dishwasher, and all plumbing fixtures for signs of mold. Check your crawlspace and attic.
Hi Sheila,
Where are you seeing what you are questioning? Is it on the walls inside, outside, on clothing, need more info and what it looks like. Would love to help, do you have a photo you could send?
Sheila Ray, you can buy mold testing kits at the big box stores!
Hi Sheila,
Thanks for getting back with a response.
If it is black then you have mold and it is easily treatable, you can use several methods to get the best results. I am assuming it is on the grout. Start a lemon, a fresh lemon slice, keep it on there and let it bleach it out. If not effective, try hydrogen peroxide or a bleach solution, but not together, the fumes together are toxic.
If it is pink to red then that is the athletes foot fungus, clean that with soap and water.
Best to you.
Thank you.