What is a common sign of active mold growth on surfaces?

The presence of a musty odor is a common sign of active mold growth on surfaces. Mold produces volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as part of its metabolic processes, and these compounds often emit distinctive odors that can be recognized as musty or earthy. This smell can often be a warning sign that mold is not just present, but also actively growing in an area, particularly in environments with moisture, organic material, and suitable temperatures.

On the other hand, the absence of color, dry and clean surfaces, and highly reflective surfaces do not indicate mold activity. In fact, mold typically appears as colorful patches or spots in a range of colors, including white, green, black, or blue. Clean and dry surfaces would usually suggest a lack of mold growth, and reflective surfaces do not correlate with mold presence or growth patterns. Thus, the distinct musty odor serves as an important indicator for identifying potential mold problems.