r/Mold • u/there-she-go • 8d ago

Development near bathroom ceiling?

Gallery image

Gallery image

Gallery image

Gallery image

In the last month or so, what I assumed to be dust/grime started to look a little more like mold in my bathroom. I took a flashlight and a closer look and snapped some pictures. Though it is difficult to see intricate in photo compared to in person, I can supply additional details that some spots appear to have fuzz, are dark gray and black in color. Some also appear to have a central “mass” and edges that sprawl out so to speak. Any information or assistance is appreciated! I have already submitted a work order with the apartment maintenance for an evaluation. I have also done the at home tests, which I’m learning from here are not as helpful. Thank you!

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

6 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/PeppersHere 8d ago

Looks like condensation dripping down the wall - which also appears to be providing just enough moisture for mold to grow. Easily wiped off, not a major concern.

I'd focus more on the bathroom ventilation (as to mitigate it from returning in the future) - is the exhaust fan working adequately?

1

u/there-she-go 8d ago

I’ve lived in this apartment for three years, and the exhaust has seemingly functioned properly (maybe up until recently?). I open it up and clean it regularly as well. I’m most curious since this hasn’t really shown up before, why now? Thank you for your input.

1

u/PeppersHere 8d ago

If it's still venting out humid air from the bathroom adequately, you shouldn't be seeing condensation on the walling material after a shower/bath (or, at least not enough to drip down the drywall).

If ya have roommates / family - maybe one of them is taking longer / hot showers? or isn't turning the exhaust on when using the bathroom?

If not, then I'd say give it a good clean and monitor it for any signs of change in the future. If it returns for seemingly no reason in the future, then there's reason to investigate the overlying space for a leak... but IMO, this still looks very much like surficial water markings to me.

Sorry OP, I don't have a direct answer for ya, but I hope the info helps nonetheless :]