Musty odors and the appearance of fuzzy patches on your walls and ceilings mean that you have mold growing in your house. Not only is the presence of mold inconvenient and embarrassing, but it’s also unsafe. This is especially true if you have someone in your home dealing with respiratory issues. Find out more about why some homes have more mold in them than others, and how you can get the help that you need.
Humidity Levels and Poor Ventilation
Mold requires moisture to grow and thrive, and when your air has too much moisture in it, it makes your entire home a breeding ground for bacterial growth. The weather in this region, especially during the summer, includes high temperatures with an abundance of humidity in the air. Since humidity is a measure of moisture, it’s important that you keep your home well-ventilated to minimize the amount of stagnant, humid air.
Without fresh air circulating, mold spores have a better chance of settling and growing on surfaces. The issue gets worse when temperatures outside are at their highest and lowest because windows stay shut, and air exchange is limited.
One of the most effective ways to combat this is to invest in ventilation improvements, like exhaust fans or a whole-home dehumidifier. By actively controlling humidity levels, you can significantly reduce mold.
Water Leaks and Plumbing Problems
Leaky pipes, roof leaks, and poorly sealed windows often result in hidden damp areas, which create an ideal environment for mold to grow. Homes with unresolved water damage, even if it’s minor or in hard-to-see places like behind walls, are more prone to chronic mold issues.
Once water seeps into drywall, wood framing, or carpet, it can be difficult to fully dry these materials. Mold doesn’t need standing water to form. Something as seemingly small as a small damp spot can create a widespread mold problem that makes your whole home unsafe.
Building Materials and Insulation
Homes built with materials that readily absorb moisture, like untreated wood, ceiling tiles, and some types of insulation, are more prone to holding moisture. Once mold takes hold in these materials, it can release spores into the air continuously.
Additionally, improperly installed or aging insulation can trap moisture inside wall cavities. That creates dark, damp environments where mold can grow undetected for years. Newer homes that follow updated building codes often include mold-resistant materials, but older homes may be more vulnerable.
Any mold in your home is too much mold. You must take measures to get rid of it immediately. For mold remediation services in Bellingham, MA, call J Brian Day.
