Mold

2/24/2016 (Permalink)

Mold issue in a home in Scranton, Pa.

What Makes Mold Grow and What Steps Can Be Taken to Prevent Mold Growth

In order for mold to grow and colonize, it needs the proper environmental conditions and for there to be food, moisture and a place for it to grow.  Many types of building materials can be a food source for mold, such as wood, carpet, food, paper, insulation, wallpaper, paint, wallpaper glue, plasterboard, fabrics, cotton, books, leather, chipboard, furniture, dust, ceiling tiles, inside air conditioners and almost any other organic material.

Moisture in home allows mold to grow.

Moisture and/or high humidity can facilitate mold  growth.  A critical factor in stopping mold growth indoors is to control the amount of moisture in the environment and to maintain an environment with humidity levels below 60%.   Moisture can be present in a home as a result of a number of factors including, but not limited to, a plumbing leak, water permeating the structure from the outside as a result of a flood, roof leak, faulty door or window seals, shower steam, improper ventilation in the kitchen when cooking or boiling water which causes condensation, drying wet clothes indoors, over watering house plants or water accumulation at the foundation of a home .  When water stands, for as little as 24 hours common molds can begin to grow.  There are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent mold growth:

• Clean up and dry and spills immediately and ensure all standing water or other liquid has been completely dried up
• If building materials (e.g. drywall, cabinetry, carpets, furniture, etc.) get wet, make sure to start the drying process promptly and definitely within the first 24 hours of their becoming wet.
• Use the air conditioning system or a dehumidifier to control the moisture in the air and keep the relative humidity below 60%.
• Put vent systems in areas where water can accumulate, such is bathrooms or cooking areas.

  Mold Growth in Bathroom

• Do not carpet bathrooms or the basement because carpet retains water.
• Close all windows during rain storms or when humidity levels outside are elevated.
• Allow sunlight into home by opening shades or drapes during the day.
• Minimize the number of naturally occurring mold spores in a home by cleaning, dusting andvacuuming frequently.

Further information about what causes mold damage can be found on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website, www.epa.gov.