Winter is coming! Many people believe that mold issues disappear in the winter; however, mold growth is a year-round problem. It flourishes in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees and grows wherever humidity or moisture is present. During the winter months, it can grow in places that are hard to detect such as in the walls and attic. Excessive indoor moisture can be caused by several issues; water damage, plumbing leaks, leaky roofs, high indoor humidity, and condensation are potential concerns.
Condensation on and around windows is normal and may seem harmless, but it is one of the biggest moisture culprits when it is cold outside but warm inside—as is typically the case during winter.
Freezing water expands causing cracks in your home in which water can get in between the walls of your home. This moisture can cause hidden mold growth that you might not notice until it is too late. There are several ways to prevent mold from growing inside your home during the winter.
Turning on the heat makes the air in your home very dry. Many people combat the dryness by using a humidifier. If you do use a humidifier, make sure that your indoor humidity level is below 40 percent. If you use a humidifier, as many of us do in the winter, make sure it does not produce an excessive amount of humidity.
Remove possible sources of mold growth by regularly vacuuming and cleaning. Pay close attention to bathrooms and other areas of your home that are likely to generate a lot of moisture. It only takes 24 hours for dampness to turn into a full-blown mold problem.
Give Mold Testing Services a call if you suspect mold growth in your home. We are happy to answer any questions you may have!