Why Did the Mold Return?

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

Mold grows where the conditions are ideal. Wall sections near windows are typical locations to find mold colonies.

Fix the Moisture Source to Prevent Mold from Returning

Many homeowners say they removed the Mold from their bathroom walls, but it returned several days later. They ask why? Our response is based on the science of drying and years of experience working in damp structures to perform mold remediation. Here’s our answer, “Mold requires moisture to grow. There are always mold spores in the air outdoors and in our indoor environments. When a surface becomes damp and when the relative humidity of the indoor air reaches 60% or higher, Mold will grow.”

Why Does Mold Return to the Same Location?

This is another common question, and there is a logical reason why Mold first grew in a specific location and why it returns to that location even after being removed. It’s because the conditions were ideal for mold growth in the first place. The air movement in the room carried mold spores to a specific location where the texture, temperature, and moisture conditions were perfect for a mold colony to develop; these locations are often found on outside-facing walls and usually above or below windows. Bathrooms and kitchens produce steam and are the standard rooms in which Mold can become a problem. 

It’s easy to remove mold patches, but new airborne mold spores will settle in the exact locations if the moisture conditions are not corrected. There are ways to prevent this cycle from repeating:

• Ventilate kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms so moisture don’t exceed 60% RH.
• Use dehumidifiers and HVAC systems as necessary
• Install and use powerful exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms
• Be sure that exterior walls are properly insulated
• Inspect for external leaks, including pipe leaks that could dampen a wall
• Maintain indoor temperature so condensation doesn’t collect on exterior walls

SERVPRO of Yuma East, Foothills has observed that most interior Mold is caused by lack of ventilation. That means opening doors and windows to ventilate and operating exhaust fans in damp rooms to prevent mold growth. Anytime you need advice about a mold problem or require mold remediation, we are here to help. Our experienced team can be reached at 928-247-1180