What Causes Mold in Homes?

Mold is an important part of nature, helping with the decomposition of organic matter and recycling nutrients in ecosystems. While outdoor mold is essential, mold in homes presents health hazards and can cause property damage. Molds reproduce via tiny airborne spores that travel virtually anywhere, even in our homes. Puroclean serves Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasanton, Livermore, Rodeo, Danville, Pittsburg, Brentwood, Tracy, Oakley, and all of Contra Costa County.

Even though traces of mold spores indoors, they need the right “ingredients” to produce mold. Unfortunately, the conditions for mold growth are found in most homes: a food source (such as drywall, carpet, and wood), warmth, darkness, enough time to grow, and most importantly, moisture.

Common Culprits That Cause Mold In Homes and Tips for Prevention

1. Flooding

Cause: Flooding can bring a huge amount of water into your home, causing severe water damage and possibly mold growth within 24-48 hours.

Tip: Calling a professional restoration company immediately after the disaster is your best chance of mitigating water damage and preventing mold growth. Professionals have the right equipment and expertise to extract water quickly, dry affected areas, and treat any mold that may have started to grow. Also, take measures to prevent future flooding, such as installing water barriers or improving the drainage system around your home.

2. Increased Humidity

Cause: Increased humidity can occur in homes in many ways — humid weather, continuous rain, cooking, showering, etc.

Tip: To help prevent mold growth in your home, make sure your house is well-ventilated and keep the humidity below 55 percent. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to control indoor humidity, especially in areas prone to moisture, like basements and bathrooms. Place fans in damp areas and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

3. Insufficient Ventilation

Cause: Insufficient ventilation leads to increased humidity and, thus, to mold growth and other problems like indoor pollution.

Tip: Make sure to open doors and/or windows when practical and to use fans as needed. Ventilate areas where moisture is generated, such as kitchens and bathrooms, by using exhaust fans. Ensure that your dryer vents to the outside and consider using an air purifier to help maintain air quality.

4. Leaking Pipes

Cause: Leaking pipes are a common problem in homes and must be fixed immediately. Oftentimes, leaks are hidden from view, such as inside walls.

Tip: Inspect walls regularly for water stains. Check under sinks and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of leaks. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can prevent small leaks from becoming major problems. Consider installing water detection sensors in high-risk areas.

5. Roof Leaks

Cause: Roof leaks are also a way for water to seep into your home and cause mold.

Tip: If you see water stains on the ceiling, check for water damage in the attic and have your roof inspected and fixed as soon as possible. Regularly inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and clean gutters to ensure proper drainage and prevent water backup.

6. Condensation

Cause: Condensation occurs when warm moisture-laden air comes in contact with cold surfaces. Condensation can be visible on walls, windows, concrete floors, or metal pipes.

Tip: Reduce condensation by adjusting the humidity in your home. Use insulation on cold surfaces like pipes and walls to prevent condensation from forming. In bathrooms, run the exhaust fan during and after showers to remove moisture-laden air.

7. Basements

Cause: Basements provide excellent mold growth conditions due to poor ventilation, cooler temperatures (that promote condensation), and frequent water leaks and flooding.

Tip: Ensure your basement is well-ventilated and use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low. Regularly inspect the basement for leaks and water damage. Consider installing a sump pump to manage water intrusion and waterproofing the basement walls and floor.

Call Your Local PuroClean Office For Mold Removal Services

Mold can also grow in various unexpected areas in the home, making mold remediation more difficult. For comprehensive mold removal, as well as fire and water restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office.

PuroClean technicians are trained to handle mold infestations of all sizes, using advanced equipment and proven techniques to thoroughly eliminate mold and prevent its return. In addition to mold remediation, PuroClean offers a full range of restoration services to address water and fire damage, helping to restore your home to its pre-damage condition.

Trust PuroClean to provide effective, reliable solutions to protect your home and your health.