Mold Season: What Time of the Year Does Mold Grow?

Every property owner should take steps to prevent mold from growing in their property. Mold in the house is a big problem. Unchecked mold can affect the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of your home and may also cause health problems. Mold spores can travel to different parts of a home, causing a stale, musty odor. If you’re trying to deal with a mold problem, schedule mold remediation Sacramento in a timely manner before the problem snowballs into a major issue.

Mold typically grows well in temperatures between 32 and 77 degrees F, particularly when combined with high humidity. That said, some types of mold can also grow in cold temperatures. Almost all types of mold become dormant at freezing temperatures, but will start to multiply and grow again when temperatures rise.

Some Common Causes of Mold Growth

Many people think that mold grows only in dark, damp and moist places. In reality, mold can grow even in well-lit rooms given that moisture is present. It can feed on wood, paper, fabric and other organic materials.

Here are some common causes of mold growth.

• Excess moisture: The primary cause of mold growth is excess moisture. Some common moisture sources in homes include leaks in roofs, walls, and pipes. Flooding and condensation due to poor ventilation or high humidity levels can also cause excess moisture
• Inadequate ventilation: Poor ventilation in rooms, especially in bathrooms and kitchens can lead to excess moisture, which in turn encourages mold growth
• Humidity: High levels of humidity can help create the perfect environment for mold to flourish. Humidity levels are often high in regions with humid climates. The humidity level in your home can increase drastically if you fail to regulate it
• Water leaks: Plumbing, roof, and wall leaks, and leaking windows can lead to moisture problems that encourage mold growth
• Flooding: If your home was flooded and the water wasn’t promptly and properly removed and the affected area thoroughly dried, mold can grow in different areas of your property
• Poor maintenance: Improper building maintenance can increase the risk of mold growth, especially in damp areas such as bathrooms and kitchens
• Previous mold growth: If your home was infested with mold and you failed to address the root cause of the problem (for example an underlying moisture problem), mold can come back. Whether mold is growing in your home or commercial property, you will want to schedule professional mold remediation in Sacramento sooner than later. An experienced mold remediation expert has gained specialized knowledge and is equipped to develop remediation solutions that target the root causes of mold problems
• Condensation: Occurs when cold air hits a warm surface such as concrete walls, metal pipes, and window frames/tracks. Dampness caused by excess condensation can lead to mold growth on your walls, ceiling, and furniture

If you do not maintain your wooden furniture, carpet, and insulation or fail to store food and paper documents properly, they can become a breeding ground for mold. To prevent mold growth, control moisture levels in your building using your fans and humidifiers. Ventilate your bathroom, kitchen crawlspace, and basement and have a professional regularly inspect and maintain building structures to prevent leaks and condensation.

How Quickly can Mold Appear?

Mold can appear quite quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours, under the right conditions (the presence of moisture and a food source, and a warm environment). When these requirements are met, airborne mold spores can settle on items and start to grow. Mold spores can colonize in 1-12 days.

If humidity in a particular area in your home increases due to sudden temperature fluctuations or any other reason or the area was affected by water damage, mold can start growing in it in as little as 24 hours. In some cases, visible signs of mold growth do not appear for weeks, even months.

If mold is growing on the walls of your home or commercial property, do not wait too long to schedule professional mold remediatio Sacramento as mold spores can spread quickly to different parts of your property, and you may end up with a full blown infestation.

Does Mold Grow in Certain Seasons?

Mold can grow any time of the year, if the conditions are right. In some regions, mold growth is more common in summer, while in others, it often occurs in winter.

• Spring and summer: As temperatures rise, indoor humidity levels increase, creating the ideal conditions for mold growth. In humid climates or areas that experience rainfall during summer, mold problems can be more pronounced in hot weather
• Fall and winter: While cold weather can slow down mold growth, it can still occur, especially indoors where heating systems can create a warm, cozy environment. Poor ventilation in homes during these seasons can also contribute to higher indoor humidity levels, fostering mold growth
• After flooding or water damage: Regardless of the time of year, mold can start growing within 1-2 days after water damage occurs (water damage can be caused by flooding, plumbing leaks, or excessive condensation)

Signs it’s Time to Schedule Professional Mold Remediation

Here are some common signs you have a mold problem and should schedule mold remediation Sacramento as soon as possible.

• Visible mold growth: This is the most common sign of mold in the house. Mold can appear in various colors (black, white, green, or yellow) and usually grows in damp, warm, and humid areas
• Musty odors: A persistent musty or earthy smell, especially in a damp area such as your basement, bathroom, or kitchen is a common sign of hidden mold
• Recurring health problems: If you fall sick too often or experience allergic reaction symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rash, or respiratory issues frequently, you may have a mold problem on your hands
• Water stains: On your wall, ceiling, or floor can indicate mold growth behind or within them

West Coast Fire & Water is a trusted mold remediation service in Sacramento. From testing for mold to removing it, we can manage your mold remediation project from start to finish. To consult a mold remediation expert, call 916-945-9665.