How to Limit Mold Growth During the Winter

Mold is not a seasonal problem, unlike what most homeowners might think. During the winter, increased moisture coming from rain, sleet, and snow can create humid conditions inside the house and allow mold to grow. When this happens, it can pose various health threats to the home's occupants in the long run.

If left neglected, mold can spread to other areas of the house and be difficult to remove. It will require the intervention of a professional mold remediation company, such as ServiceMaster of Cobb, to completely remove mold and its spores. Fortunately, there are ways to control and reduce mold growth during the winter season. In this article, ServiceMaster of Cobb discusses basic mold facts and some tips to keep the home as safe and as mold-free as possible.

Basic Facts About Mold

● Mold is a fungus that thrives on decaying matter and moisture. While mold exists naturally in nature, it is an unwelcome sight indoors and can contribute to poor air quality.

● Mold is propagated by microscopic spores, which are carried by the air and land on surfaces like drywall, ceilings, and floors. Mold can thrive as long as the conditions satisfy the criteria for its growth, such as the presence of moisture and nutrients.

● Mold can grow in indoor areas such as the basement, bathroom, under the sink, underneath carpeting, behind walls, or inside air ducts and HVACs.

● Mold appears as black, brown, greenish gray, or white patches near water-damaged areas and develops a musty odor.

Tips to Control Mold Growth in Winter

● Indoor humidity must be kept below 45%. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends monitoring and maintaining the home's moisture level to control indoor mold growth. When humidity levels increase, a dehumidifier may be installed to control the moisture while looking for a permanent solution.

● Check plumbing for leaks and have them repaired immediately.

● Set ceiling fans in reverse. To save money on energy bills and keep the home warmer, set fans to turn clockwise in the winter to pull cold air up and draw warm air down. This action also enables air to circulate properly and keeps condensation buildup on cold walls and windows, which prevents mold growth.

● Replace furnace filters regularly and perform air duct inspection.

● Use exhaust fans for good air circulation in bathrooms, the kitchen, and other areas which frequently accumulate moisture.

● Clean gutters regularly. Leaves and other foreign materials can get stuck in gutters and cause clogging. Also, ensure that the area around the house allows water to flow away from the foundation to prevent pooling and potential mold growth.

● Do not place rugs or carpets near places where moisture collects easily, such as windows and sinks.

Got Mold? Trust ServiceMaster of Cobb, Georgia and Tennessee's Leading Mold Remediation Company

If mold still grows despite following the aforementioned tips, it's time to hire professional mold remediation services in Georgia and Tennessee, like ServiceMaster of Cobb. Our IICRC-certified firm has licensed, bonded, and fully insured professionals who can thoroughly tend to the damage, contain the mold, prevent further damage and spreading, conduct necessary repairs or replacements, and return your home to its pre-disaster condition.

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, our highly trained disaster restoration specialists are among the very best in mold damage recovery. Don't let mold destroy your winter celebrations and put your family's health at risk. At the first signs of mold, contact ServiceMaster of Cobb at (678) 264-3310 for Georgia, (423) 220-4482 for Tennessee, and (678) 909-1078 for commercial services.