The Basic Chemistry of Mold and How to Prevent it
If you live where humidity in the air is naturally high, like by the coast or another large body of water, then mold growth in your home can be a recurring problem.
If the weather’s been very humid for a few days in a row you might notice mold starting to grow in your home. When it rains for several days it’s especially common to see mold start to grow on walls, benches, and other surfaces because of the wet air. If you live where humidity in the air is naturally high, like by the coast or another large body of water, then mold growth in your home can be a recurring problem. Also, when moisture inside your house evaporates into the air it increases the humidity indoors. If your home isn’t well ventilated then the humidity will stay high for a long time. The household HVAC system can also create humidity troubles while it artificially heats or cools the air. Sometimes people use humidifiers in their homes, but there are molds that only need the humidity level to be higher than 55% to start growing. So, if you need to use a humidifier in your home make sure to keep the humidity below 55%.
What is Mold Made Of?
Without water mold cannot grow. Mold also needs a food source, oxygen, and a temperature between 40 degrees and 100 degrees F. Since mold decomposes dead organic material (cellulose, hemi-cellulose and lignin) it can grow on wood, paper and other materials made from wood. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores. The spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through the air. Mold may begin growing indoors when spores land on moist surfaces. There are many types of mold, but all require moisture for growth, making homes a breeding ground for mold.
Mold Prevention
When you open windows and doors, you let air conditioning escape, waste money, and invite humid air into your cooler home. This causes condensation, which mold thrives in. So, keep doors and windows shut when the AC is humming. Also, maintain your home at around 80 degrees when you’re on vacation or at work. Too often, we bump the thermostat up to 85 degrees, or turn off the AC when we’re away. This raises temperature and humidity, which creates the ideal home for mold.
All Aspects Waterproofing Can Solve Your Basement Mold Problems Today!
If you are ready to get a professional to address your ongoing mold problems, contact. All Aspects Waterproofing, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company with over 30 years of experience in the Washington, DC./Maryland/Virginia area. We have a great deal of experience in waterproofing, mold testing, and mold remediation, and we want to make you feel at home again. Contact us online or by calling 1-866- 999-3110 or 301-766- 4420. To see what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Houzz.