How to Limit Mold Growth

The most practical approach to limit mold growth is early detection and prompt resolution of excessive moisture. If you can see mold or detect an earthy or musty odor, you can assume you have a moisture problem that must be resolved to achieve a permanent solution to arresting mold growth. Mold growth is found behind walls or under materials where water has damaged surfaces. Look for discoloration and mold on surfaces.

Controlling indoor air moisture will limit the probability of supporting mold growth from condensing water on interior surfaces; such as on walls, windows, and areas near air conditioning supply registers. Relative humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor in air. Relative humidity meters are useful for detecting excessive moisture and they are available from most hardware stores. Moisture sources that increase indoor air relative humidity are: habitation (people release moisture), bathing, cooking, plants, washing and air-drying of dishes and clothes, unvented combustion appliances, humidifiers, and outdoor ventilation air in humid climates.

Another moisture source is water from leaks; such as from pipes, rain water leakage through windows, roof flashing, ice dams, etc.

Strategies that can help minimize mold growth:

• Take notice of musty odors in the home because they indicate the presence of mold. Look for visible signs of mold and abate the moisture source.
• Watch for condensation and wet spots and eliminate sources of moisture.
• Prevent moisture resulting from condensation by increasing surface temperatures or reducing moisture levels in the air. To increase the surface temperature, insulate or increase the circulation of heated air. To reduce moisture levels in the air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify.
• Perform building and HVAC inspections and maintenance. Repair the condensate drain if the air conditioning system's drip pan overflows with water.
• Vent clothes dryers to the outdoors.
• Run the air conditioner and/or a dehumidifier during the humid months of the year. Controlling indoor air moisture to below 65 percent relative humidity will limit the probability of supporting mold growth.
• Keep the relative humidity as low as is comfortable during the winter season for houses in cold climates. Mold growth on interior surfaces of exterior walls can occur during the heating season. The combination of cool surfaces and excessive humidity can cause a high near-surface relative humidity and condensation. Experience has shown that an air moisture level below 40 percent relative humidity during the heating season will prevent condensation on surfaces. This level of humidity may not be appropriate for houses in severe cold climates. A sign of excessive humidity is condensation on the inside of windows. If condensation is present for prolonged periods take steps to reduce the moisture source or increase ventilation.
• Clean and dry any wet or damp areas within 48 hours.
• Provide drainage for roof rainwater and maintain the ground with a slope that drains water away from the foundation.
• Repair water leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
• Do not store organic materials such as paper, books, clothes, etc., in humid locations (such as in unconditioned basements).
• Exercise extra care when cleaning up after water damage from flood and sewer water.
• Consider the use of dehumidifiers in areas such as unconditioned basements

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