Where Is Mold Commonly Lurking In Your Home?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Where Is Mold Commonly Lurking In Your Home?

Mold is more than just black spots on your walls – it usually grows and infects large areas especially behind walls or in places that are dark and damp. Mold can cause damage to buildings and health effects to tenants if left untreated.

If you have found serious mold growth and infestation in your home, such as after a flooding or leakage, you need to call a professional home restoration company right away. They will know how to properly rid your home of mold, even in places you don’t notice. However, you too can do your part in spotting mold growth in smaller quanitities around the house. Here are the top six hiding places of mold in a home.

Windows & Window Sills

Windows and window sills are your main defense against the rain, and are also prime spots where moisture will accumulate. As they are regularly exposed to dampness, mold tends to grow here, especially if your windows are not properly sealed and water gets under the sealant. Sometimes old windows have seals that have deteriorated so badly, condensation builds up underneath, causing mold to flourish.

Carpets & Upholstery

Your carpets, drapes, furniture, and other fabrics around the house may seem fine, if sometimes a little dusty – but the moment they become moist, like from a spill or leak, they become prime zones for mold to thrive. The dust and dirt is perfect for mold spores to feed on and multiply. By vacuuming regularly, cleaning and drying an area thoroughly after a leak or spill, and not letting leaks go unattended, you would be able to hold mold growth at bay. And if not, your nose should be able to identify mold growing where you can’t see it.

Drywall & Wallpaper

Drywall and wallpaper are porous, and hence absorb moisture which encourages mold to grow. Unfortunately, mold growing behind wallpaper or drywall is very difficult to spot. Telltale signs would be if you spot bubbling, flaking or bulging, indicating moisture build up behind the paint or paper. If it’s behind the wall, you would need a professional to do a check for you.

Potted Plants

Of course, potted plants hold much moisture. Overwatering plants can cause roots to rot, and excess moisture may cause mold to grow, both on the soil and the pot itself. Using pots with drainage holes will help moisture buildup in the soil itself. Also, go easy on watering your plants, as they usually don’t need as much water as you may think, and you can avoid mold growth too.

Air Conditioning Systems

The air conditioning unit and heating ducts collect dust, dirt and moisture from the air, and as a result can cause mold growth. Every time you have your air conditioning units inspected, be sure the serviceman checks for mold and wipes the unit clean of any moisture, if present. Also, keeping your air conditioning running during hot and humid weather helps keep air circulating and discourages mold.

Washing Machines

Washing machines, if not dried out after use, certainly collect moisture in the drum and the gasket. One thing you can do is to leave the door open after every wash, so the moisture will dry out. If you live in a humid area, it’s best to wipe down the gasket at least after every use.