What Causes Mold in Houses?
Mold is commonly found in homes, although it isn’t always obvious. You might not even be able to see it, but you can probably smell it. Whether you just started noticing a musty smell or other signs of water damage, it’s a good indicator that you more than likely have mold. There are several causes of mold in houses, most of them stemming from either a leak or caused by a moisture control issue. No matter what is causing the mold, it is essential to treat it sooner rather than later. Untreated mold is dangerous to both the structure of your home and the health of its occupants.
Causes of Mold in Houses
From flooded basements to leaky roofs, there are a number of things that can cause mold to grow in your house. Before you can even worry about treating the mold, you’ll have to address what is causing the growth in the first place.
Lack of Ventilation & High Humidity
Improper ventilation, especially in areas with high humidity, can cause extra moisture within your home. The Center for Disease Control recommends keeping humidity levels in your home between 30% and 50% to prevent mold growth. By improving ventilation and installing dehumidifiers, you can help your home stay dry and mold-free.
Damaged or Leaking Roof
Even if you don’t notice any water directly pouring into your home, a damaged or leaking roof can cause mold growth. Whether the leak is visible or not will depend on the extent of the damage, which determines whether the roof can be fixed or will need replacing. Diagnosing the roof problem before remedying the mold is important to prevent any future damage.
Unsealed Windows or Doors
Doors and windows that don’t properly seal are not going to be watertight. If your home isn’t safe from the elements, then moisture will inevitably find its way inside. Damp areas are prime locations for mold spores to grow, so if water is seeping around a window sill or doorframe, then you may eventually have a mold problem as well as a water damage problem. It’s a good idea to check and seal gaps around windows and doors both in the fall as you prepare your home for the winter, as well as during your spring cleaning.
Damp Basements & Crawl Spaces
One of the significant causes of mold in houses is damp basements or crawl spaces. Crawl spaces are exposed to humid outside air, groundwater, and damp soil. All of these conditions cause water and moisture buildup and will lead to mold growth if not resolved. Although basements can sometimes offer more protection against water, flooding is a common issue with basements as well. Wet basements can not only cause mold growth but can cause more permanent damage to your home.
Addressing Moisture & Mold in Your Home
Are you looking for moisture control solutions to address mold growth in your home? Managed Services Group offers basement and crawl space waterproofing and repair to keep your home safe and dry. Not only does a dry home prevent mold growth, but it also protects against further damage to your foundation, floors, and walls. Contact us today for a free consultation in Richmond or Charlottesville, VA, and the surrounding areas.
Since 2008, Managed Services Group has provided comprehensive moisture control and basement waterproofing services to homeowners throughout the Greater Richmond area. As a licensed and insured Class A contractor, we have the experience and knowledge to back up our passion for home improvement. Give us a call today at (804) 972-3007 (434-299-9382 for Charlottesville) for a free estimate. We’ll schedule an inspection with you, make a recommendation, and, in most cases, give you an estimate right on the spot.
