Typical Mold Causes in Hampton Roads area

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold hidden in a crawl space

Mold is often the unseen enemy within our homes or businesses. Slyly, it finds an ideal nook that it calls home, and from there it can gradually grow and expand its reach. And because it comes upon us unidentified, if left unchecked, Mold can lead to deadly consequences, not just for the structure but its inhabitants too. Chronically ill family members, young children, the elderly and even the family pets, are not spared from the effects of Mold.

The textbook Mold home  

Mold is very particular about where it resides. Homeowners won’t find it on a windowsill that’s bright with sunlight. Nor will you see it on floors and tiles that you walk on daily and vacuum and mop daily. However, even if most of the home is airy, filled with natural and artificial light, and cleaned often, there are sources inside your home that can allow Mold to flourish:

Indoor Humidity Levels

Climates that are extremely humid can lead to indoor humidity levels rising. On the other extreme, homeowners living with low indoor humidity levels tend to power up their humidifiers to seek relief. Other sources of indoor humidity include:

Mold needs indoor humidity levels to be slightly higher than 55% to take root. So whether you use a humidifier or a dehumidifier, make sure the humidity levels inside your home never surpass the 55% level.

Condensation Causes Mold

Cold surfaces can create condensation in your home. Condensation collects on cold metal pipes as well as on cold concrete floors, even if there is carpet over the top, and on walls. Places like these where condensation occurs are prime spots for mold growth.

Indoor leaks

Leaking roofs, pipes and appliances (washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters) are another source of house Mold. Hidden pipes (behind walls and floors) can sometimes host Mold for many years, allowing it to spread throughout the home, before the telltale signs (discoloration, damp patches, and odor) of Mold begin to appear.

The Mold Theme  

By now, readers may have grasped on to the fact that the common sources of Mold explored above have a common theme. Can you guess what that is? If you guessed Dampness, then you are right. Anywhere there’s unchecked dampness within the house, Mold finds a home. And the best way to protect yourself is to continually inspect and observe every part of the home, especially rarely used or lightly trafficked areas.

If you have questions or are concerned about potential mold in your home or office, please contact SERVPRO of Suffolk/Smithfield/Franklin at 757-934-8404.