Dormant microscopic mold spores exist in almost any house, but the causes of active mold growth in the home all have one common denominator: moisture. Airborne mold spores that infiltrate the home may settle in cracks, crevices and accumulate in hidden areas. Growing active mold, however, only becomes manifest under certain circumstances. Where these conditions exist, mold growth thrives and millions of toxic reproductive spores are released into your indoor environment. It is these active spores that cause acute allergic responses as well as other chronic illnesses attributed to mold contamination. In the typical household, the causes of mold in the home can be attributed to these moisture-related conditions:
- High humidity. When the water vapor content in indoor air exceeds 50 percent, condensation that contacts dormant spores initiates active mold growth.
- Leaky plumbing. Pinhole leaks in supply lines, unseen dripping connections under sinks or elsewhere, corroded drain pipes—all may provide the moisture mold spores need to activate
- Roof leaks. Small roof leaks often go unnoticed while slowly saturating the hot, dark enclosed environment of the attic. This produces a perfect growing environment for mold.
- Damp basements. Underventilated basements, particularly where unseen ground water seepage may be present, create another enclosed, moist area that provides all the necessary conditions for a mold colony to thrive.
- Poor drainage. Improper landscape grading that allows rain water to accumulate at the foundation instead of draining away from the house promotes seepage
- Flooding. Any water inundation from inside or exterior sources penetrates the house structure and reaches mold spores in all parts of the home. Toxic mold growth normally begins within hours after flooding affects a home.
For more details on dealing with the causes of mold in the home, contact the water damage professionals at Rytech.
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