How to Investigate a Mildew Smell in Your House
Discovering a mildew smell in your house can be a mystery and you probably want to get to the bottom of it as soon as possible. That musty odor often points to hidden moisture issues to look over.
From a small whiff in a corner to a pervasive smell throughout the home, any instance is important to pinpoint and address. This post will go through the most common and likely sources of mildew smells, how to locate the source you’re dealing with, and what you can do.
What Are the Most Likely Culprits?
When a mildew smell is noticeable in your house, it typically means there’s excess moisture or hidden mold growth somewhere. The fun part is pinpointing it–here are some of the most common sources of an odor like this:
Leaks and Water Damage
Plumbing issues, such as leaky pipes or fixtures, can introduce moisture into walls, floors, or ceilings, creating the perfect environment for mildew to thrive. Similarly, roof leaks can lead to water damage, often going unnoticed until the telltale musty smell becomes apparent.
High Humidity
Indoor areas with elevated humidity levels are breeding grounds for mildew. Spaces like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements can trap moisture, especially if they’re not well-ventilated. Over time, this trapped humidity fosters the growth of mildew and mold.
Poor Ventilation
Poor airflow in certain areas of your home can cause moisture to accumulate, leading to mildew smells. This is especially common in basements, attics, and bathrooms without adequate ventilation. Ensuring proper air circulation is key to preventing moisture buildup.
Mold Growth
Mildew and mold can grow in plain sight or more hidden spaces, like behind walls, under carpets, or inside HVAC systems. Hidden growth often causes a musty odor before any visible signs appear. Investigating the less obvious areas can help uncover the source of a mildew smell and prevent any further damage.
Investigating the Mildew Smell
Start with a thorough inspection of common problem areas. Begin in the bathroom, kitchen, and basement, as these spaces are often prone to moisture buildup.
Look for signs of water damage, such as discoloration, peeling paint, or warped surfaces. Don’t forget to check around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, where leaks might occur. If you can’t find the source in the usual spots, it’s time to dig a little deeper. You can check behind walls, especially if you’ve recently experienced any leaks or water damage.
Also, inspect HVAC systems, including ducts and vents, where mold can grow and spread. Pull back carpets to inspect the flooring underneath, and examine corners and edges where moisture can accumulate unnoticed.
Mildew Detection and What’s Next
Accessible tools like moisture meters can help detect hidden dampness in walls or floors. Your sense of smell is a powerful tool—move through the house and note where the smell is strongest.
For a visual inspection, a flashlight can help spot mold growth in dark or hard-to-see areas. If you’re uncertain or the situation seems extensive, consider hiring a professional with specialized equipment for a thorough assessment.
What to Do After You Confirm Mildew
1) Assess Your Ventilation
Start by increasing airflow in the affected areas – do things like open windows and doors to allow fresh air in, and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Portable fans can also help circulate air, and dehumidifiers can be particularly effective in reducing moisture levels.
2) Clean Affected Areas
For minor mildew issues, you can often clean affected surfaces yourself. Use a solution of water and vinegar or a mild detergent to scrub the area. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, to avoid exposure to mold spores. For tougher stains or porous materials like drywall, you may need stronger, specialized cleaning agents or professional help.
3) Take Temporary Measures
Reduce the moisture and smell in the meantime using air purifiers with HEPA filters, which can remove mold spores from the air. Dehumidifiers can also help by pulling excess moisture out of the air, making the environment less hospitable to mildew growth.
Preventing Future Mildew and Smells
After addressing the immediate mildew problem, consider some preventative maintenance so it’s not recurring.
- Fix moisture issues
- Control indoor humidity
- Handle regular home maintenance
Moisture and Humidity
The first step in prevention is eliminating sources of excess moisture. Start by repairing any leaks in plumbing or roofing as soon as they’re discovered.
Regularly clean the gutters and downspouts so they can direct water away from your foundation. Consider installing a sump pump or improving the drainage system to keep water out of areas like moisture-prone basements.
Keeping a dry environment inside your house is key to preventing mildew and the smell that comes with it. Use dehumidifiers, especially in humid areas. Think spaces like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, to keep humidity levels below 60%.
Installing vents and exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens can also help by removing excess moisture from the air. Make it a habit to open windows or use fans to promote air circulation, especially after cooking or showering.
Recommended Home Maintenance
Routine inspections and maintenance are essential for preventing a mildew smell in the house. Regularly check your home for signs of water damage, leaks, or mold, paying special attention to less visible areas like under sinks, behind appliances, and in crawl spaces. Keeping your HVAC system well-maintained by changing filters regularly and scheduling professional cleanings can also help prevent the spread of mold spores.
Try to set up a regular schedule for checking vulnerable areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces, for mildew and mold. It’s especially important after heavy rain or during humid seasons.
When it comes to moisture and mildew, your HVAC system will either be your best friend or your biggest foe. Make sure it’s functioning and replace the filters regularly. A well-maintained HVAC system improves air quality and helps maintain prime indoor humidity.
When to Call a Professional
- Extensive mold that covers a large area, generally more than a few square feet, warrants a professional assessment.
- A persistent mildew smell that lingers despite thorough cleaning and ventilation efforts could indicate a more significant hidden problem.
- Health concerns like persistent coughs, respiratory issues, or allergies could be caused by mold exposure. Always be seen by a healthcare professional if you think you’re experiencing mold-related symptoms.
- Structural damage, such as sagging ceilings, warped walls, or peeling paint, may indicate severe moisture issues that require professional repair.
Final Thoughts
Tackling a mildew smell is a simpler process after identifying common causes, like leaks, high humidity, or poor ventilation. Routine checks and proper maintenance are your best defenses.
Sometimes, a mildew problem can be more than a DIY project – if the smell lingers, the mold spreads, or if anyone at home feels unwell, it’s time to bring in the pros. To schedule an expert assessment of your home or get guidance on mildew concerns in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas, call Inside and Out Property Inspectors today.
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!