Mold is a serious problem and once you have it, it can be a hassle to get rid of. In order to grow, mold needs spores, a food source (wood, dry wall, dirt, etc), darkness, warmth, moisture, and oxygen. So, here is a list of things that can contribute to the growth of mold.

  • Humidity/Poor ventilation: Without enough ventilation, air remains stagnant and creates pockets of moisture. This creates humidity which causes wet surfaces to dry out more slowly. This can cause mold to be a reoccurring problem if not taken care of immediately.
  • Flooding: When an area floods it can sometimes stay that way for long periods of time. This can make it harder for anything in the flooded area to dry properly, thus creating a good environment for mold to grow in.
  • Condensation: Condensation can occur in metal pipes, walls, floors, etc. When it is left there it can cause mold growth.
  • Leaky pipes: Pipes that leak provide everything mold needs to grow and can be especially damaging when the pipes are hidden in walls where leaks may take longer to find.
  • Leaky roofs: This is another thing that can be easy to miss, especially if you have an attic. If you have water damage in your ceiling, be sure to check for mold growth in your roof as well.
  • Wet/damp clothing: We’ve all been there. You’re doing laundry but then you get distracted by something else and forget that you have wet clothes just sitting in the washer machine. Try to avoid this, as wet clothes are yet another place mold likes to grow.
  • Water in the foundation of your home: If your home does not have plenty of drainage outside then water simply sits there. This is especially true if you live in a rainy area or use your sprinklers often.

With the proper environment, mold can grow virtually anywhere. If you are concerned that you may have any of the circumstance listed above and that they may be contributing to the growth of mold in your home, contact an expert at Nova Environmental Solutions by calling (540) 645-6141 or visiting us online at www.novaenvironmentalsolutions.com. Don’t put the health of you and your family at risk.