Winter Mold Growth Prevention

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Understanding Mold itself is the best way to understand how to prevent it.

Since mold is usually a problem we tend to think about during the warm, humid months, it may be a surprise to many to learn that mold can still be prevalent during the winter months. A humid atmosphere can be created when cold air outside clashes with warm temperatures inside, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. Mold can have a number of detrimental effects on your home and those who live in it. These can range from allergies to damage to your home’s foundational structure. In order to keep your home safe from mold during the winter months, it is important to understand the most effective methods of preventing mold growth.

What Can You Do?

Mold growth prevention during the winter follows many of the same guidelines as preventing mold growth during the summer, such the use of fans and dehumidifiers. During the winter, however, the need to keep an eye on doors, windows, and their surrounding areas, is more important. Moisture can compile in these areas when water leaks or cold air creates condensation, which facilitates mold growth when met with indoor heat. Clean these wet surfaces immediately in order to prevent mold from growing. It is also beneficial to monitor flooring near doors, as moist surfaces can also be created when wet shoes enter your home, after walking through rain or snow. Finally, during the winter, ice and snow tend to pile up on roofs, which can sometimes leak through. In order to prevent mold from growing in attics in the event that water or snow leaks through the roof, keep air circulating, which can be achieved by utilizing a fan.