Guide to Mold Control

9/21/2023 (Permalink)

According to the Healthy Indoor Air Research Center at the University of Illinois, mold spores are ubiquitous and can grow on any organic surface if the right conditions are present. These conditions include organic matter for food, moisture, warmth, and oxygen. To prevent mold growth, it is important to keep all surfaces clean and dry, as well as ensure adequate ventilation.

Moisture is a key factor for mold growth, so it is essential to address any sources of moisture such as flooding, leaky pipes or windows. Areas with excess moisture like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are particularly prone to mold growth.

Mold spores also require a source of food, which can include various materials found in the environment.

Optimum temperatures for mold growth range between 32 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures around 70-90 degrees being the most conducive for mold proliferation.

Author Michael Pugliese, in his book "The Homeowner's Guide to Mold," highlights three conditions that favor mold growth: a relative humidity of around 50% or higher (which can be monitored using a hygrometer), damp or dusty conditions (avoiding the accumulation of mold food sources like piles of rags or clothing), and stagnant air. It's worth noting that tightly sealed homes designed for energy efficiency can sometimes experience mold issues due to a lack of adequate air circulation.

If you discover mold in your home, it is recommended to contact SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside at 708-240-4873 for assistance.