Options For Locating Mold Growth Inside Of A Residential Wall
If you think you might hear water dripping in a wall and fear a mold colony may be growing on the backside of the nearby wall's drywall, then it's important that you determine if it's the case. Mold colonies growing in the walls of your home will send out spores through vents, outlets, and light switch voids. The spores will spread throughout your home, start new mold colonies, and lower your indoor air quality.
Before you can remediate mold growing inside of a wall, first you need to locate its exact location. Thankfully, there are a few different ways you can do so.
Cut a Hole in the Drywall and Look Inside
If you know how to patch holes in drywall, then the easiest way to find interior mold growth is to simply cut a hole in the wall and take a look. By using an angled inspection mirror you can purchase at your local auto part store and a bright flashlight, you will easily be able to see any mold stained areas on the backside of the drywall.
When cutting into the drywall, make sure you avoid cutting into utilities, and make sure you put down a drop cloth just in case water comes flooding out of the hole.
Smell for the Musty Scent of Mold Around Light Switches and Outlets
When mold grows, it gives off a musty damp smell. If you have ever walked into a bathroom in an older home and smelled a damp musty odor, then you know what mold smells like.
Since there are existing voids into your home's walls around each of the light switches and outlets, you can use them to sniff around for the tell-tale musty odor of mold growth.
While smelling for mold won't tell you the exact location or extent of the problem, it will give you a good idea of where to look using more invasive methods.
Hire a Professional Mold Remediation Service
If you don't want to deal with repairing holes in drywall or can't determine if your walls have any interior musty odors, then it's a good idea to hire a professional mold remediation service to inspect your house. These professionals use boroscopes, moisture meters, and infrared cameras to find mold in areas humans can't see. If mold colonies are found inside of your walls, then the mold remediation technician will speak with you about your options.