Mold is a Major Concern for Homeowners

Once toxic black mold infests the home, you are facing a very expensive and cumbersome clean-up process that could lead to a sizeable homeowners insurance claim. Toxic mold -- stachybotrys -- is commonly a dark, slimy, greenish-black mold. If toxic mold begins to infest your home you need to immediately remove it. Mold causes strong allergic reactions for many people, as well as serious neurological problems for those with a weak immune system.

Mold will also signficantly reduce the value of your home. Left to fester, mold could potentially make your home uninhabitable.

Following are numerous danger signs and areas where your home may become infested with toxic mold:

* Bathroom tile grout: One of the most suscesptible locations for toxic mold is the bathroom. Because water can pool up in porous tile grout and behind the tiles, it is a favorite location for mold. No matter how well the tiles are sealed, you need to make sure they are cleaned frequently to eliminate bacteria build-up.

* Breathing and health problems: Have any family members begun to expeience allergic reactions or respiratory-related ailments? This may be a sign there is toxic mold in the air. Studies have shown a high percentage of chronic sinus infections are due to the presence of toxic mold.

* Clothes dryer/laundry room: Many laundry areas are a breeding ground for mold. Steam must always be vented outside -- not into the home. Still, the heat and moisture in the area often attract mold.

* High humidity: Homes in areas with high humidity -- any level greater than 55% -- are in danger of attracting toxic mold. If you live in a high humidity area, it may be a good idea to purchase a dehumifier to control the air moisture level inside your home.

* Leaks: Oftentimes mold results from a buildup of water caused by leaks in pipes, hoses or your roof. If they go undetected or if they are not corrected immediately the mold will grow and will likely become hazardous.

* Rusting: Rusted pipes or other metal objects is a sign of high humidity or a potential water leak. If you detect rusty areas you should look for the moisture sources and correct the situation.

* Floods: If flood waters flow into your home, it usually takes several days for the water to completely evaporate. The standing dirty water is an open invitation for black mold growth.

* Stained, bowing, cracked or peeling walls: If you have areas of your walls that have yellow or brown stains, if paint is cracked or peeling, if the walls are actually bowing or warped looking, then there may be mold growing in the walls.

* Gutters: If your rain gutters are clogged, water could back up and seep into the roof. If the base of the gutter is blocked, then water could also leak into the base of the home and into walls. Needless to say, homeowners must make sure your rain gutters are cleaned every year.

* Skanky odors: Don't let your son convince you his hamper piled high with disgusting, sweating clothes is not a problem. Mold can congregate in areas where there are musty and mildewy odors.

* The green thumb: Many people enjoy keeping numerous house plants and flowers around the home. They add to the aesthetic appeal of the home and they emit healthy oxygen. However, be aware that these plants often require constant watering, which could increase indoor humidity and moisture levels.