No homeowner likes to see mold growing in their house because it can cause serious health problems to you and your loved ones. No matter how clean you make your home, undetectable mold spores will grow in warm, moist environments. Because of the serious health issues they cause, it would be best to prevent their growth in your home. Luckily, you can prevent it from wreaking havoc. Here is what you need to know about the causes of mold:
What Causes Mold Growth?
Molds are microbes related to the fungi family. They are in every warm environment with moisture, which makes it difficult to determine the exact number of types of mold in existence. Scientists believe that there are about a hundred thousand mode types, with about 1,000 species in the US.
The common areas in the home where you can find mold include kitchens, bathrooms, pipes, and conduit areas. Spores can remain in the air until it finds the support to grow. That is where moisture comes in – it supports mold growth. Mold can, and will, grow in any area where moisture is present for an extended amount of time. In homes, you find mold growing on drywalls, ceilings, and wood due to moisture in these areas. Below are some common causes of mold growth in homes.
Leaking Pipes
The reason why your drywalls have mold build-up could be as a result of leaking pipes behind them. The same applies to the ceiling connected to pipe passages. Mold growth is a sign that you have a leaking pipe in your home. Check around to find a possible cause and amend it.
Condensation
The winter period is another agent of mold growth. Snow and ice cause the accumulation of moisture, especially on walls. All cold surfaces are liable to support mold growth. Proper ventilation can prevent a build-up of condensation.
Wet and Damp Clothing
Keeping wet clothes together for many hours can cause mold growth. It tends to grow faster if the clothes remain in the same position you left them after washing. It is advisable to spread your washed clothes as soon as possible.
Leaking HVAC System
Leakages of pipes or ducts in air-conditioning allow moisture to accumulate. When this happens, mold gets the opportunity to grow. So, check your air-conditioning system regularly to ensure it is in the right condition before use.
Persistent Humidity
One of the factors that makes a home susceptible to mold growth is high humidity. Homeowners in humid areas cannot escape this situation. It becomes necessary for them to ventilate their home during these periods.
The Negative Impact of Mold Growth on Human’s Health
The growth of mold can have adverse implications for humans, especially breathing issues. The unseen bit of mold in the air could be why a person becomes allergic to some things. It can also bring about asthma and infections.
Contact DCM Environmental!
If you believe that your home contains mold, it’s important to test for it as soon as possible. DCM Environmental provides Massachusetts with unbiased mold, asbestos, and lead paint testing. Call us at (617) 481-5782 or fill out the contact form on our website!
