Detection

• If you suspect a mold infestation, the first step is to look in all the problem areas in the house. Mold prefers moist, dark areas, so it's frequently found in basements and bathrooms. Any area of the house that often has high humidity or may be damp because of leaks or weather should be inspected. Mold can usually be spotted by its dark or white, spotty growth concentrated in corners and along the edges of walls. Begin by inspecting basements, bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Also note that in moist climates or areas, mold can grow inside walls, so the problem may not be visible, or may be far worse than it seems.
  
  The only way to be completely sure of a mold problem is to call in an expert. Environmental consultants and mold specialists have the experience and qualifications to spot mold problems and test for mold so they can tell what type of infestation it is, how dangerous it is and what the best way to remove it might be. Even specially trained dogs are used to detect mold in houses, which is often the best way to find mold that may be hidden away in walls or under floorboards.
  
  

Destruction

• Destroying the mold can be easy or difficult, depending on how bad the infestation has become. Prices can range from a few dollars and a couple hours of work to thousands of dollars worth of clean-up and replacement. The first step is always to isolate the mold area so that it cannot spread. For larger infestations, this usually means sealing the room and putting up plastic coverings. Mold is made of both the growth that has dug into the fibers of walls, wood or carpet and the floating spores in the air, which create new colonies. It is important to stop both forms.
  
  After containing the mold, it should be killed using a pesticide or specified mold killer. The infected areas should then be scrubbed and cleaned. Smooth surfaces such as metal and plastic can usually be kept if they are cleaned well. Carpets and wood often have to be removed with bad infestations because the mold has gone too deep and permanently damaged the material. These pieces can be cut out and placed in sealed plastic bags for safe removal. Dehumidifiers and vacuum cleaners with removable filters can also be used in this stage.
  
  The last step involved is to solve the problem that created the mold in the first place. Foam-insulate openings. Fix leaks in piping. Provide new layers of moisture controls and seals to protect the house from dampness. This will help ensure the mold does not return.