Mold Inside Wall From Roof Leak Undetectable

A leaky roof can pave the way for mold in a big hurry.

Mold inside wall from roof leak undetectable.

When water enters the home and has the chance to stagnate mold spores begin to germinate within the moist surface. The most common causes of mold growing on walls are high humidity condensation and water leaks which are often hidden inside the wall. You can also call in a certified mold tester to inspect your home and test different areas for the presence of mold. The spores can damage wall boards discolor tiles destroy carpets and cause health symptoms that include respiratory and sinus infections.

Systemic or limited growth. If you notice a musty odor in your home but don t know where it s coming from there could be mold growing inside the walls or elsewhere. Mold and mildew can become costly and hazardous problems if left alone. Certified mold testers are usually engineers and they know how and where to look for mold.

Visible mold growth usually dark green brown or black a musty odor near the area of the roof leak. When the wall is open it is necessary to find the source of the water leak in order to stop the moisture that is accumulating within the wall. In this case the moisture buildup is indirect the roof leak only affects a small area but the dampness in the air causes condensation throughout. Aside from the above visible signs there are also some obvious health side effects that can trigger you to realize you have mold in your home.

How to find a water leak. That s because mold. Mold often grows in places where you can t easily see it like inside walls and under carpet. Then using a drywall saw cut along the line you just scored.

If it s dry the mold is likely due to damp materials during the original construction of the wall. Cut a hole in the wall large enough for your head to fit inside. Roof leaks cause two types of mold growth. Because it s an interior wall condensation is unlikely unless the interior rh is extremely high.

The wall studs should be replaced if possible. Mold produces gasses called microbial volatile organic compounds mvoc many of which have a musty smell. Brown or gray ceiling discoloration. The only way to know for sure if there is mold in walls is to look.

These can often be rented at local construction rental shops. Cut 12 inch by 12 inch inspection holes with a drywall saw every four feet remove any insulation and use a mirror and flashlight to inspect the inside of the walls. If your home smells musty you should suspect mold and inspect your home carefully. Also be sure to completely dry the area before closing it back up because even a slight amount of moisture can result in mold growth.

To stop mold at its source you will need to eliminate the substance that allows it to grow in the first place. Condensation is especially common on walls which form the perimeter of a house. Condensation forms when water vapor in the air meets cold surfaces and cools to become liquid.