ASAP Restoration
Mold can hide behind walls, under floors, or in your HVAC system—so how can you catch it before it spreads? Whether you’re a concerned homeowner or just want peace of mind after water damage, here are the best tools you can use to detect mold at home.
Essential DIY Mold Detection Tools
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist, dark environments. While small amounts of mold spores exist naturally in the air, when moisture levels rise—due to water damage, humidity, or leaks—mold can begin to grow and spread on surfaces such as drywall, wood, ceilings, and carpets.
Common sources of mold growth:
- Leaky pipes or roofs
- Flood damage
- Poor ventilation
- Damp basements or crawl spaces
- Overflowing appliances (dishwashers, washing machines)
What Are the Warning Signs of a Mold Problem?
1. Moisture Meter
Moisture meters detect elevated moisture levels inside walls, floors, and ceilings—a key sign that mold may be forming behind the scenes. Choose a pin or pinless model depending on the surface.
- Best for: Checking drywall, wood, tile
- Popular models: General Tools MMD4E, Wagner Meters
2. Infrared Thermometer or Thermal Camera
Thermal imaging can spot cold or damp areas hidden from view—often a sign of trapped moisture and potential mold.
- Best for: Scanning large areas quickly
- Pro tip: FLIR makes compact thermal cameras that connect to your phone
3. DIY Mold Test Kit
These kits collect surface or air samples to identify mold spores, but accuracy can vary. They’re better for basic awareness than for confirming a mold infestation.
- Best for: Budget-conscious users
- Use with caution: Follow instructions closely for more accurate results
Advanced Tools for Airborne Mold
4. Air Quality Monitors
Some smart air monitors can detect mold risks by measuring humidity and airborne particles (including VOCs and spores).
- Best for: Allergy-prone households or hidden mold
- Recommended: Airthings View Plus, uHoo
5. Inspection Camera ( Borescope )
These allow you to peek inside walls or vents using a flexible camera probe. Great for checking inaccessible areas without demolition.
When to Call a Professional Mold Inspector
While DIY tools like moisture meters and air quality monitors are useful for early detection, mold can still grow undetected behind walls, under floors, or inside HVAC systems. In many cases, visible signs don’t appear until the problem has worsened. That’s when it’s time to bring in the pros.
You should consider calling a licensed mold inspector if:
- You smell a persistent musty or earthy odor that doesn’t go away, especially in basements, bathrooms, or crawl spaces.
- You see visible mold, even in small patches—it can indicate a much larger issue behind the surface.
- Your home recently experienced water damage, such as a flood, burst pipe, or roof leak.
- You or a family member experience unexplained health symptoms, such as allergy flare-ups, headaches, coughing, or sinus issues that worsen indoors.
- You suspect mold growth but can’t locate the source, or you’ve tried cleaning it, but it keeps coming back.
Is mold remediation covered by insurance?
Not always. It’s important to carefully review your insurance policy or speak directly with your provider before assuming that mold remediation is covered.
In most cases, insurance will only cover mold damage if it results from a sudden and covered event—like a burst pipe, accidental overflow, or storm-related water damage. However, if mold develops from long-term moisture, poor maintenance, or neglect, it’s usually not covered by standard homeowners insurance.
Tip: Contact your insurance provider to find out what’s included in your policy. Ask specifically about:
- Mold from hidden leaks
- Mold after flooding
- Mold from HVAC or appliance malfunctions
- Coverage limits or exclusions
Understanding your policy now can save you from surprise expenses later.
Is mold remediation necessary after water damage?
Yes, mold remediation is often necessary after water damage—especially if the affected area wasn’t dried out quickly or completely. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, even if the damage seems minor.
If water has soaked into drywall, flooring, insulation, or behind walls, it creates the perfect environment for mold to grow silently and spread. Over time, this can lead to structural damage and serious health risks, including respiratory problems and allergies.
Mold remediation after water damage helps to:
- Remove hidden moisture and mold colonies
- Prevent future mold outbreaks
- Protect indoor air quality and your health
- Preserve the value and safety of your home
Certified Mold Remediation Experts – Fast Emergency Response
You can protect your home and health from the dangers of mold with expert mold remediation services from ASAP Restoration. Our process begins with comprehensive testing to uncover any mold-related concerns. Upon finding mold, we’ll provide you with a no-obligation estimate and promptly get to work to restore your property safely and effectively.
Contact us today at (404) 882-1591 for professional mold remediation services in Johns Creek, GA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mold make me sick?
This is one of the most-searched mold-related questions. Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, allergies, skin irritation, and more—especially for those with asthma or weakened immune systems.
Does homeowners insurance cover mold removal?
Many policies do not cover mold unless it’s caused by a covered peril (like sudden water damage). Users often search this after spotting mold post-flood or leak.
What are the signs of hidden mold?
Users often don’t see mold but smell something musty or feel unwell. Common signs include peeling paint, warped drywall, allergy flare-ups, and moisture stains.
What should I do if I find mold after a flood or leak?
Searches spike after storms or burst pipes. Users want immediate steps: stop moisture, don’t disturb mold, and call a remediation expert ASAP.
How do I remove mold instantly?
White vinegar can kill many types of molds on contact. Bleach also kills mold on hard, non-porous surfaces, but should be used with caution and proper ventilation.
Can I use hydrogen peroxide to kill mold?
Yes. Hydrogen peroxide (3%) is effective on porous and non-porous surfaces. Spray it directly on the mold, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean.
Can air purifiers remove mold spores?
HEPA air purifiers can capture airborne mold spores, but they don’t remove mold growing on surfaces. Use them as a supplement, not a solution.
How Much Does Mold Removal Cost in 2025? | Mold Remediation Guide
Recent Reviews
Review by Ana Chaves
Disaster Restoration
"I had a great experience with ASAP Restoration. They worked extremely well, timely, respectfully, taking care of all. Special thank you for Colin and Rebeca always with an amazing attitude!"
Review by Will
Flood Restoration
"I can't recommend ASAP Restoration highly enough! After my basement flooded, they were a breath of fresh air during a very stressful process. Unlike my contractor (avoid Trimelogic at ALL COSTS), ASAP maintained clear communication throughout, genuinely cared for my property, and went above and beyond. A special shoutout to Colin, who was my point of contact and an absolute delight to work with. ASAP Restoration completely earned their pay, and I'd recommend them to anyone. Thanks again!"
Review by J Parris
Content Pack-Out
"ASAP handled all of my items professionally and with care. They made a very stressful situation a little easier to get through. Everybody is very friendly and does their job well!!!"
See All Reviews on Google
