What’s Growing in Your Walls? Is there Mold in Your Household?

Before the warm, moist Spring air settles over the warmer parts of the country it’s a good time to start thinking about one of the greatest household pests- MOLD.

In a recent article by BobVila.com, it was reported that mold is more prevelant in homes now than ever before. Reason being that homes these days are more energy efficient and air tight so mold spores are confined within the walls of the home enabling it to grow.

Mold has also become more of a health hazard for homeowners and their families because on average, people Americans spend about 90 percent of their time indoors, according to the National Center for Healthy Housing.  This means home dwellers are more consistently exposed to mold that may exist in their home making them more susceptible to asthma and allergies.

Where Mold Grows

A common misconception is that mold will only grow on organic materials. The truth is, mold can grow on almost any surface in the home. Common areas of mold growth include insulation, drywall, carpet or anywhere that may be affected by excessive moisture.  (I recently found a nice little patch of mold growing under my kitchen sink where there had once been a leak).

It is important not just to repair leaks when you find them, but to remove any materials that have been exposed to the resulting moisture. For example, if there is a leak in your roof you may not notice until you see a stain on your ceiling. However, simply fixing the leak and painting over the stain does nothing to kill the mold that is most likely growing between your ceiling and your roof. Left unattended, the mold can continue to grow and spread- long after the water stops leaking.

Mold Remediation

While it may seem like a big task for a small leak, it’s a good idea to check behind the damaged wall or ceiling to inspect the insulation, drywall, plaster and other materials. If there appears to be water damage on these materials- replace them. It could cost you three or four times as much in replacement if you let the problem “grow”.

(A large mold problem should be handled by a professional.)

However, simply remediation mold damage is not really getting to the root of the problem.  In order for mold to grow, it must first enter the home through heating and cooling vents and then stick to the walls of a room that does not get good ventilation. Occasionally airing out unventilated rooms will help prevent mold from taking hold. Thorough, regular cleanings can help as well.

For more information, visit this article by HomeInsurance.com on Preventing Mold Damage.