Mold needs moisture, oxygen, a source of food and a surface. Mold spores are naturally found in the air and when these spores land on damp or wet surfaces that harbor dust for them to feed on, the growth of mold won’t be far behind. Carpets are high risk for mold development. Mold produces allergens. Allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions, irritants and possibly potentially toxic substances. When mold is inhaled or touched, the spores can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms can include fever-like symptoms like red eyes, sneezing, runny nose and skin rashes. Reactions to mold are common and can be immediate or delayed. Not being able to see mold doesn’t mean it’s not there. Only severe cases of mold in carpet is visible, like in the case of flood damaged carpet that has remained wet for too long.
Signs you Might Have Carpet Mold
1. Appearance of mold growth. Again, this is rare unless the mold growth is very bad. If this occurs, the carpet is almost always unsalvageable and needs to be replaced. You might not see it on the surface as it might be happening in the fibers where it’s hard to see. If you suspect mold growth in your carpet, it needs to be examined on both sides.
2. Mildew in carpet. Odor or discoloration on carpet is sometimes referred to as mildew, is most likely a case of mold.
3. Water damaged & flooded carpet. Carpet that has been subjected to flooding or standing water will almost always need to be thrown away because in these conditions mold has all it needs to thrive. Mold development is highly likely unless the carpet is taken care of immediately. It needs to be cleaned and dried within 24 to 48 hours and even this will not guarantee mold prevention.
4. Wet carpet padding. Padding can become wet and can happen through condensation making it at risk for mold development. This means that not only will the carpet need to be replaced, but the padding too.
5. Mold stains and odors. Lots of things can cause stains and odors. If you think you might have mold in your carpet, you need to have samples taken and sent for testing to figure out if mold is in fact the culprit.
How to Prevent Mold in Carpet
When dealing with mold, it’s best to prevent it from growing in the first place. Select high quality carpet padding by choosing solid, rubber-slab carpet padding that has anti-microbial properties. It’s a little more expensive, but helps in preventing the growth of mold. It’s a better option in climates where high periods of humidity exist. Reduce humidity levels by using dehumidifiers to control moisture levels as it will prevent mold spores from getting the moisture they need. Prevent standing water because it can ruin carpets quickly and use professionals to clean carpets. The equipment they use is better and stronger and will have your carpets drier faster.
Professional Carpet & Water Damage Cleaning in Valley Village, Long Beach, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Simi Valley, Burbank, Calabasas, Beverly Hills, Thousand Oaks & Los Angeles California
Wet carpet can start growing mold in just 24 hours so it’s imperative to move quickly after a water disaster. Steam Green Carpet Cleaning is prepared to get your carpets clean and dry to prevent any problems with mold development. We offer water extraction and structural drying as well as carpet cleaning and deodorizing. Contact us today!
