With the warm and sometimes “humid” weather quickly approaching, it’s safe to say that plenty of Kansas City homeowners will be concerned about indoor climate control, as excess moisture from plumbing leaks can create a breeding ground for humidity and mold growth.
Mold is a natural part of the environment; when a mold is outside, it plays a key role in how nature breaks down organic material, including dead tree branches and leaves on the ground.
While mold has its significance outdoors, its presence indoors, especially mold from water damage, can pose significant health risks. Mold growth is also an unsightly and unhealthy toxic substance. If left unaddressed, mold can infiltrate porous materials like drywall and carpeting, leading to hidden mold that compromises indoor air quality and may cause adverse health effects, such as respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
If you want to control mold in your home and reduce the risk of mold exposure and mold proliferation, you’ve got to prevent moisture and disinfect surfaces. Part of avoiding moisture is to address water leaks immediately and thoroughly dry out affected areas, whether in drywall, crawl spaces, leaky faucets, roof leaks, wall cavities, water heaters, or even behind washing machines, whenever an area has been affected by potential water damage. Regular maintenance of gutters and the use of exhaust fans in high-humidity regions can also help control moisture levels. When looking for mildew and mold growth, you may notice visible mold, a musty smell, or an unusual odor from the mold buildup; this could indicate a mold problem.
Mold Spores Are Invisible to the Naked Eye
Molds reproduce by creating tiny spores, which are invisible to the naked eye. These spores float through the air, and once they come into contact with a damp surface, the mold begins to reproduce.
Molds come in different varieties and colors. However, none of them can thrive without moisture or water.
Mold inside people’s homes usually comes in one of the four categories:
- Alternaria
- Aspergillus
- Cladosporium
- Penicillium
Signs of Mold
Common signs of mold include musty odors, visible discoloration on walls or baseboards, and water stains, particularly in areas with poor ventilation or around the HVAC system.
If you notice the following inside your property, mold may have taken root in a hidden or hard-to-reach area. The signs include :
- There is a musty, smelly In some cases, this foul smell may have developed due to mold resulting from water damage.
- There is visible Mold can appear as black, olive green, white, or gray patches on walls, ceilings, or floors.
- Peeling or warping – The walls or floors inside your property may be moisture-damaged and will likely bubble, crack, or warp.
- There are spots on wooden walls, floors, and ceilings that are water-damaged.
- Your property feels and smells dusty, despite regular cleaning.
- Condensation or dampness – If your home still feels humid or damp long after the water damage occurred, mold may already exist.
- Visitors experience allergic reactions only when they step inside your property.
What are the Health Risks Associated with Mold Damage?
Once mold lands on a wet surface and begins to grow, you may have potential health concerns to consider. Since molds produce irritants, toxic substances (mycotoxins), and allergens, inhaling or coming into direct contact with mold can cause an allergic reaction. Black mold, also known as Stachybotrys, can lead to serious health issues, including minor or major respiratory problems. Some people have allergic reactions to mold and experience symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and a skin rash, while others may suffer from asthma attacks.
Individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic lung conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe lung infections.
Beyond the health risks, mold can also cause significant property damage. If mold growth is advanced enough, it can harm the value of your home and, in some cases, render it virtually uninsurable and unsellable. Unfortunately, many homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover mold damage resulting from plumbing leaks or flooding. That’s why it’s critical to catch mold early and address its source—plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, or both are the most common causes of mold infestations.
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has established guidelines for proper mold remediation and restoration. Professionals should follow these guidelines during any water damage restoration project. While regular cleaning can eliminate specific types of mold, the severity and promptness of the issue may require professional treatment and adherence to strict safety protocols.
To protect both your health and home, take proactive steps: regularly monitor your plumbing system, address leaks promptly, and ensure proper ventilation throughout your property.
Understanding the financial and health costs of ignoring mold is the first step toward protecting your investment and your well-being.
Mold and Plumbing Leaks: What to Do
Mold frequently grows in basements, shower stalls, drywall, carpets, under sinks, and plumbing pipes. If you have leaky pipes that are causing a mold infestation, you should:
- Identify and repair any plumbing leaks promptly, water leaks, leaky faucets, fluctuations in water pressure, or higher-than-normal water bills, would all need to be addressed immediately.
- Clean and dry the areas that suffered water damage within 24 to 48 hours.
- When it’s humid, it’s essential to use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to prevent moisture.
- Avoid carpets in humid bathrooms and basements.
- Use bathroom fans when showering.
Mold Cleanup Tips
If you’ve discovered mold indoors, it’s essential to take action promptly to prevent it from spreading. Mold can damage surfaces, weaken structural materials, and pose serious health risks. Follow these cleanup tips to address mold growth safely and effectively:
1. Assess the Mold Problem
Determine the size and severity of the mold growth. Small areas (under 10 square feet) may be manageable with DIY methods, while larger infestations or hidden mold behind walls or inside HVAC systems may require professional remediation.
2. Clean Small Areas Safely
For minor mold spots:
- Scrub the surface using a solution of bleach, vinegar, or a commercial mold-killing cleaner.
- To limit mold exposure, wear an N95 respirator (available at hardware stores), gloves, and goggles that are preferably without holes to protect your eyes from mold spores.
- Always wear protective gear and ensure the area is well-ventilated.
- Thoroughly dry out the area afterward to prevent regrowth.
3. Know When to Call a Professional
If mold covers a large area, keeps returning, or involves toxic black mold or contaminated HVAC components, consult a professional mold remediation company for mold testing and safe removal. Certified experts possess the necessary tools and experience to eliminate mold and prevent future issues effectively.
How to Prevent Mold from Water Damage
Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours after water exposure. Even small or hidden plumbing leaks can lead to serious mold problems if not addressed quickly. To help prevent mold and protect your home’s air quality, take these key steps:
1. Remove Standing Water Immediately
The longer water sits, the greater the risk of mold. Begin removing water as soon as possible using tools such as:
- Wet/dry vacuums for small puddles
- Sump pumps for larger flooding
- Mops and towels for minor leaks or spills
2. Thoroughly Dry the Affected Area
Once the standing water is gone, the area must be dried completely to stop mold from taking hold:
- Open windows and run exhaust fans to improve airflow
- Use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers to draw out moisture
- Turn on your HVAC system to help regulate indoor humidity
- In damp climates or hard-hit areas, consider renting industrial dehumidifiers
3. Discard Water-Damaged Materials
Some materials retain moisture and can harbor hidden mold even after drying:
- Remove and replace soaked carpet, padding, and insulation
- Discard wet drywall or baseboards that don’t dry thoroughly
- Evaluate upholstered furniture—if saturated, it may need to be replaced
4. Clean and Disinfect All Surfaces
After drying, disinfect all non-porous surfaces to kill any remaining mold spores:
- Use a solution of 1 cup bleach per gallon of water (never mix with ammonia)
- White vinegar or commercial mold cleaners are effective alternatives
- Wear gloves, an N95 mask, and goggles for protection, and ventilate the space well
5. Watch for Lingering Signs of Mold
Mold can still develop even after cleanup. Keep an eye out for:
- Water stains or discoloration
- Musty or unpleasant odors
- Visible mold patches
- Dampness behind walls, under floors, or in hidden corners
Need to Remove Mold in Your Home? Contact A-1 Sewer & Septic.
If you’re facing visible mold or signs of water damage, it’s essential to act quickly—mold from water damage can spread rapidly and lead to structural damage or adverse health effects.
Did leaky pipes cause a mold problem in your home? If so, contact A-1 Sewer & Septic Service Inc. for assistance. Our Kansas City plumbers offer same-day and weekend services. Call today, our operators are standing by!
At A-1 Sewer & Septic, we help Kansas City homeowners address the root cause of mold growth by repairing plumbing leaks and mitigating moisture issues that create a breeding ground for indoor mold. While we do not provide mold remediation directly, we work closely with trusted local professionals to ensure your home is safe, dry, and free from mold.
Don’t let a hidden leak or delayed response become a significant problem. Contact A-1 Sewer & Septic today to inspect your plumbing system and help you take steps toward complete mold removal and prevention.
