Many people think that molds only grow during the cold winter months. The truth is, many activities at home can lead to the growth of molds regardless of the season. Molds grow almost anywhere on the walls, ceiling, attic, floor, books, clothes, toys, garbage bin, etc. But our big question is, is mold a serious health hazard? Find out more.

Molds in a nutshell

Mold is a fungus that can occur both indoors and outdoors. What happens is that molds produce spores that float around the air, making them dangerous for your respiratory health when it occurs indoors. Mold spores thrive in moist areas, and when they land in a damp environment, they begin to grow. They can grow on many materials, including plastics, fabrics, paper, wood, and glass. Also, they may digest the material they are growing on.

There are various types of molds, including:

• Alternaria that grows indoors in damp environments such as showers and under a leaking sink.
• Penicillium tends to grow on surfaces affected by water damage and occurs in green or blue color.
• Cladosporium occurs in both cool or warm environments and tends to grow on fabrics and wood.
• Aspergillus mainly occurs indoors on building materials like drywall, powdery food items, and even on dust.

Mold can be black, grey, green, brown, and can take different textures. It often looks like discoloration or a stain on a surface.

How mold grows inside a house

There are many ways mold can find its way into your house. Remember that mold spores occur everywhere, and you cannot see them through your naked eyes. They can enter your home through the air via doorway systems, ventilation systems, and windows. They also attach to vehicles, clothes, shoes, and pets.

However, mold growth only occurs under ideal conditions for growth, such as a moist or damp environment. If the area is unsuitable for mold spores to flourish, they do not grow or cause problems. Mold often grows in air ducts, where a water leakage or flooding has occurred, on windows where condensation builds up, and in areas where the air does not circulate, like behind closets. It is usually visible and produces a musty smell.

Protection and prevention

By controlling moisture in your home, you play a significant role in preventing the growth of molds. You should also keep your house clean and well ventilated. If mold growth has already occurred in your home, you should remove it as soon as possible. You can notice mold growth as it appears in the form of discoloration and stains on various surfaces.

When mold occurs in hidden areas such as your air duct and ceiling, it manifests in the form of a musty smell around your home. Professional mold removers know how to kill mold in air vents and other areas that are hard to clean on your own. Always call in a professional to handle large areas of mold growth.

Always dry surfaces after using them to prevent mold growth. You can also research antifungal paints and other products you can use to prevent mold growth if it keeps on recurring, such as dehumidifiers.

The takeaway

Keep your indoor space clean, dry and airy to prevent mold growth. Call in a professional if you suspect severe mold growth in your home.