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If you’re wondering which is more toxic, laminate vs.vinyl flooring, you might be surprised to learn that both can include toxic chemicals. Depending on the specific brand and the manufacturing process, both are likely made from synthetic materials that can emit volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, into the air. However, since laminate has a wood core, it is more sustainable and less polluting than vinyl, which is entirely synthetic and almost always emits more VOCs than laminate flooring. If you’re concerned about indoor air quality, choose a low-chemical flooring manufacturer or, better yet, choose flooring that doesn’t off-gas VOCs.

If a professional mold inspector finds mold in your home, they’ll conduct mold testing to determine the type of mold species and the number of spores in your home. This plan will help develop a remediation plan, where a mold remediation specialist will remove the spores from your home. Since mold remediation costs the average homeowner $2,225, it’s best to treat mold at the first sign rather than waiting.

Checking for mold yourself is crucial, as catching mold in the early stages is ideal. Mold can appear green, brown, black, blue, or yellow. It can smell musty and can feel like velvet, leather, or cotton. 

Most often, mold grows near water damage. It’s best to inspect these places for signs of mold growth:

• Basement: Look in corners, windows, carpet, closets, and around appliances. 

• Bathrooms: Check around sinks, ceilings, and around toilets. 

• Kitchen: Inspect around the sink, behind the refrigerator, and behind trash can.

• Attic: Look near the insulation and near intake and exhaust vents.

Wood rot and mold are related but not equal. Wood rot specifically refers to the decay of wood caused by fungi, compromising its structural integrity. Mold, including black mold, is a type of fungus that can grow on various surfaces, including wood. While wood rot involves the deterioration of the wood itself, mold, including black mold, can grow on both rotting and non-rotting wood, making them interconnected but distinct issues.