The Causes of Mold

Water and moisture is always the cause of indoor mold growth. Mold doesn’t just grow all by itself, it requires moisture. The source of moisture is typically from one of three ways:

Directly

Direct water event such as a leaky roof, plumbing leak, poorly sealed windows, backed-up drains, water run-off from showers and bathtubs, etc.

Indirectly

Indirect water dampness such as moisture wicking up from the ground or damp concrete slabs into walls, carpet, cabinets, furniture, etc.

Intermittent

Intermittent water intrusion from condensation. This can be caused by humidifiers, vaporizers, high steam, inadequate ventilation, high humidity, and faulty windows.

Wash Rooms

Washing machines in a room without a floor drain. Water leaks with no point of exit will soak into adjacent carpets, walls and insulation. Solution: provide a floor drain near the washing machine.

Vinyl

vinyl wall coverings can trap moisture in warm weather. Mold will degrade the drywall and adhesive behind the wall covering. Solution: use wall coverings with impermeable papers or use paint.

Condensation Pans

Condensation pans directly under the coils of your central air conditioner can harbor mold. Solution: clean the pan and make sure the continuous drain is working before each cooling season.

Air Conditioners

Leaky air-conditioning will often create a moist environment for mildew. Solution: seal duct joints with flexible mastic available at heating and cooling supply stores.

Bathroom Ventilation

Poorly ventilated bathrooms can allow surface toxic black mold to grow. Solution: install an exhaust fan in the bathroom or at least a window that can open.

Drywall

Water-resistant drywall used as the backer can degrade quickly once subjected to moisture. Solution: install a cement backer board which will stay structurally sound even if repeatedly subjected to moisture.

Intermittent

Intermittent water intrusion from condensation. This can be caused by humidifiers, vaporizers, high steam, inadequate ventilation, high humidity, and faulty windows.

The obvious effect of mold growth inside buildings is the damage it causes to construction materials and personal property. The nature of mold is to decompose matter (i.e. your wall, insulation, interior studs and beams). Detecting and addressing mold growth early can significantly reduce the cost to remediate and repair damage caused by mold. However, left unaddressed, mold will eventually destroy everything it grows on.