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Understanding Mold Damage: Separating Fact from Fiction

By Kayce Duvall
Posted April 25, 2025

When it comes to property damage, mold is one of the most misunderstood threats. It doesn’t always make a dramatic entrance, but left unchecked, it can quietly wreak havoc on your building’s structure, air quality, and even occupant health. At Kustom, we’ve helped countless property owners navigate mold remediation—and we’ve noticed that many people come to us with the same questions and misconceptions.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about mold and mold damage, so you can better understand the risks and how to respond effectively.

Myth #1: “If I don’t see mold, it’s not a problem.”

The Reality:

Mold isn’t always obvious. In fact, one of the reasons it becomes such a serious issue is because it often grows out of sight—behind walls, under flooring, or inside HVAC systems. Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there, silently affecting your air quality and eroding building materials.

Mold only needs three things to thrive: moisture, a food source, and the right temperature. Most buildings provide the ideal conditions, especially after a leak or flood. If you’ve had recent water damage or notice musty odors, it’s a good idea to bring in a professional for a mold assessment—even if there’s nothing visible.

Myth #2: “Bleach kills all mold.”

The Reality:

Bleach can’t penetrate deep enough to kill the roots of the mold. You might wipe it away temporarily, but it’s likely to grow back—sometimes stronger than before.

Even worse, using bleach on moldy areas can increase the moisture level, giving mold more fuel to grow. That’s why mold remediation should always be handled by professionals who use specialized cleaning agents, containment protocols, and proper equipment like air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums.

Myth #3: “Mold only grows in old or dirty buildings.”

The Reality:

Mold doesn’t care if your building is brand new or meticulously maintained. What matters is moisture. A burst pipe in a new construction, a roof leak after a storm, or even high indoor humidity can create the perfect environment for mold to grow within just 24 to 48 hours.

At Kustom, we’ve performed mold remediation in condos, schools, office buildings, and newly constructed homes. Mold is opportunistic—it grows where there’s water and an organic food source, regardless of the building’s age or cleanliness.

Myth #4: “It’s just mold—how bad can it really be?”

The Reality:

While not all molds are toxic, mold can potentially impact your health and your property. People with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable. Exposure to mold spores can lead to respiratory problems, sinus congestion, skin irritation, and eye discomfort. In more serious cases, long-term exposure can result in chronic conditions.

Beyond health, mold can damage drywall, flooring, ceiling tiles, and even structural framing. What starts as a minor patch can turn into thousands of dollars in repairs if not handled early. The key is acting quickly and not underestimating the problem.

Myth #5: “Once mold is removed, I never have to worry about it again.”

The Reality:

Mold is a symptom of a moisture issue, not the root problem itself. If the source of the moisture—like a plumbing leak, roof damage, or poor ventilation—isn’t fixed, the mold will come back. Professional remediation is more than just removal; it includes identifying and correcting the underlying cause.

At Kustom, our approach includes comprehensive moisture detection, controlled demolition (when necessary), air purification, and clear communication with our clients every step of the way. We also work closely with insurance carriers to help you navigate claims if needed.

What You Can Do

The best way to prevent mold is to control moisture. Here are a few simple tips to help reduce your risk:

  • Fix leaks promptly, whether in the roof, plumbing, or foundation.
  • Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces.
  • Ensure good ventilation, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
  • Monitor indoor humidity and keep it below 60% (ideally between 30–50%).
  • Act quickly after any water damage event—ideally within 24 hours.

Call in the Experts

If you’ve had recent water damage or think mold might be present, taking action now can prevent bigger problems later. A professional inspection and proper remediation can save you from more extensive damage down the road.

At Kustom, we’re not just in the business of cleanup—we’re in the business of restoring peace of mind. Our licensed teams have the tools, training, and experience to identify, contain, and safely remove mold, while addressing the root cause to help prevent recurrence.

Let us restore your property, prosperity, and peace of mind.

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