Attic mold is relatively common simply because attics provide very favorable conditions for mold to grow. Dampness from high humidity is a major mold trigger as water vapor from living spaces below migrates upward, accumulating in the enclosed attic. In many climates, an attic also provides very favorable warm temperature ranges that support active mold growth.
But should mold growing far away in the attic concern residents in the rooms down below? The answer from Rytech's mold remediation specialists is a resounding yes, because mold growing up in the attic typically doesn't stay up in the attic. Microscopic airborne mold spores released by growing mold migrate into living spaces below. This not only causes allergic reactions and illness in susceptible persons, it also can grow and spread into the inhabited parts of the home. Two factors affect mold movement:
- Studies have shown that airborne spores from active mold growth can seep out of enclosed spaces constructed with average residential methods. Unless the area is built and sealed to very high standards not common in residential construction, tiny openings in the structure will allow spores to migrate.
- Contaminated air may be pulled out of a moldy attic down into living spaces due to pressure differentials. Colder air-conditioned air is heavier and naturally sinks to lower levels inside an enclosed house. This downward air motion creates a very subtle suction effect that draws spore-contaminated air out of the attic through tiny structural cracks and gaps into the living areas below.
To reduce potential ill effects as well as structural damage from attic mold:
- Ventilate the attic to reduce accumulation of water vapor rising up from rooms below.
- Eliminate other attic moisture sources such as roof leaks and condensation dripping from HVAC ducts or attic water damage.
- Locate and seal even the smallest openings in the ceiling which allow air movement that conveys mold spores down into living spaces.
Attics typically include unfinished structural wood that provides desirable growing surfaces for mold which will penetrate the porous material. Where presence of attic mold is confirmed by inspection and testing, professional mold remediation techniques to neutralize and remove all mold must be utilized.

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