If you're thinking of buying a house, you must be aware of possible mold issues before proceeding with the purchase. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for people to paint over mold in an attempt to disguise it or to get rid of the problem. Yet, mold does not get better on its own; it continues to grow and release toxic chemicals into the air, some of which can present health risks, especially to those with allergies or other sensitivities. A professional home inspection 

can detect the presence of mold, but first, you must know what to look for. Here are three common signs that mold has been painted over.

How to Tell if Mold Has Been Painted Over

1. Yellow Stains

When owners list their homes for sale, they often paint rooms in neutral colors to appeal to as many people as possible and give the space a fresh look. Be sure to inspect the walls carefully for yellow stains, as these are often indicators of a leak. And wherever moisture is present, there is the possibility of mold growth. Simply painting over these spots won't stop the leak or the mold, so the stain will continue to grow after the room has been painted.

2. Paint Imperfections

If moisture gets behind a wall, the paint will not adhere to the surface. This can result in cracking, bubbling, or peeling spots. As you check the home, you can look for these paint imperfections, on the walls and on the floors along the room's perimeter, where loosened paint may have chipped or flaked off. If you notice anything amiss, a professional home inspection will either confirm or deny mold growth on the property.

3. Wall Bulges

If water damage has been overlooked long enough, it will penetrate deeper into the walls. As it does, the likelihood of mold growth is much higher, and the combined force of the water and the mold may exert pressure on the drywall. This can produce bulging areas in the wall, which might have been painted over to conceal the damage.

Never ignore the signs of mold. The first step to eliminating it is to learn the location and extent of the growth. Top to Bottom Inspection Services LLC has provided comprehensive home inspections for the Metro Atlanta, GA, area since 2008. They also offer roof and swimming pool inspections, radon testing, and air quality assessments. Visit the website to learn more about them, or call (404) 838-0894 to request a quote.