The usual causes of mold in the home are rarely beyond your control. Mold growth is not a random event and typically occurs in predictable patterns. Mold spores exist all around so you can't eliminate every mold risk factor. By focusing on these three top causes of mold in the home, however, you'll greatly reduce the odds that active growing mold will ever gain a foothold in your house.
1. Water damage and flooding. Water inundation anywhere in a house and subsequent toxic mold growth go hand-in-hand. Dormant microscopic spores lie in nooks and crannies inside every structure just waiting for a sudden source of moisture to bring them to life. Mold growth following water damage should not be considered merely a potential—it should be considered presumptive and effective preventive measures by a qualified mold specialist should begin ASAP. Reduce the chances of toxic mold growth by taking steps to prevent water damage inside the house including prompt attention to plumbing leaks, roof leaks and chronic issues such as A/C condensate spills.
2. Poor air circulation. Where air is moving, humidity is generally lower and indoor temperatures are more consistent. These factors are important contributors to mold growth inside a home. Closed-up, chronically unventilated spaces that stay warmer than the rest of the house are ground zero for mold growth. Keep air circulating into all parts of the home—including cabinets and closets—to cut the chances of dormant mold spores becoming activated.
3. Inefficient filtration. Since mold spreads by releasing airborne spores, the filter in your HVAC system is an important ally in mold control. Select pleated cotton or polyester air filters with a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating of at least 8 to ensure that the filter media is efficient enough to capture microscopic mold spores circulating through your system airflow. Once you've got the right filter installed, change it regularly. Neglected, dirt-clogged air filters themselves may become a mold breeding ground.
Ask the mold specialists at Rytech, Inc. for more information about eliminating the causes of mold in the home.
