Mold is everywhere. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), mold is in both the air and on surfaces virtually all the time. Exposure to small amounts of non-toxic mold is harmless for most people, excluding those with allergies to mold. However, certain types of toxic molds can make even healthy people sick. Here is a look at what causes mold, how to prevent mold, and what to do if you find mold in your home.
What Causes Mold Indoors?
Molds need moisture to grow. To that end, what causes mold in most places is persistent dampness. So, to identify what causes mold, you need to identify which of the following are leading to persistent dampness.
1. Leaking Roof
Leaking roofs frequently go undetected as it can take time to notice dampness in the attic or in the ceiling. A musty smell, bubbling paint, or cracks developing in the ceiling are red flags that water is getting through your roof, and you’ll need to have the roof repaired or replaced.
2. Leaking Pipes
Most homes and commercial buildings hide pipes behind walls and ceilings, so small leaks may go undetected for a time. Puddles or dampness under the sink, appliances, or in corners of the ceiling or floor are warning signs that mold may be growing out of sight.
3. High Humidity
Oregon isn’t the worst state for humidity, and it’s not the best state either. Coastal areas are more humid than inland areas. All the same, Oregon is quite humid in December and January. Persistent humidity promotes mold growth, particularly in areas with poor ventilation (often laundry areas and bathrooms).
4. Condensation Build-Up
Fog on your windows during cold months is a sign of condensation and can tip you off to the presence of mold in your home. Pockets of condensation are prime locations for mold to grow in your home.
5. Flooding
A flood in your home or office is a leading cause of mold growth. If you’ve suffered water damage, it is wise to have a mold inspection conducted to ensure that dangerous molds are not growing in your home.
6. Damp Foundation
Homes built on slopes are particularly prone to dampness, with moisture pooling around the foundation. Over time, this can cause mold to grow beneath your home, spreading up the walls of your basement or first floor.
Preventing Mold in Your Home or Commercial Building
Knowing what causes mold is key to preventing it. To that end, at the first sign of water damage, high humidity, dampness, or leaking pipes or appliances, it’s important to contact a trusted service professional.
In some cases, a plumber may install a new bathroom exhaust fan. A licensed contractor or HVAC tech may also be able to improve ventilation in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and even your kitchen. Likewise, a professional appliance repair professional or plumber can help you to fix leaks from bathroom pipes or your appliances.
If you discover pooling water around the foundation of your home or dampness in your basement, contact a basement waterproofing company for service and referrals to professionals, including landscaping, drainage, and even structural engineering professionals.
If you experience a flood, contact an experienced water damage restoration specialist to ensure that your home is not only thoroughly dried but sanitized as well.
Have You Found Mold in Your Oregon Home or Property? We Can Help
ProKleen is a top-rated, award-winning emergency restoration company serving Southern Oregon. Our services include water damage restoration, mold testing and mold removal services, fire damage restoration, biohazard cleanup, and asbestos removal. Our professionals can identify what causes mold in your home so that appropriate measures can be taken. To schedule water damage restoration, mold testing, or mold removal, call us 24/7 at 541-857-1818 or send us a message to schedule an appointment.