If you’re like most people, mold growth in winter isn’t one of the hazards you think about during the coldest months of the year. Other hazards like blizzards, ice storms, and strong winds might come to mind more readily. But the truth is that mold can be every bit as damaging to your home and family as any other winter disaster. Here’s everything you need to know about preventing mold from growing in your home this winter.
Steps to Prevent Mold Growth In Winter
Mold is a fungus that thrives on water and oxygen and grows rapidly in warm, humid environments. Winter brings cooling temperatures, and cold air can’t hold as much moisture as warm air. The result is that the moisture from the air settles into areas such as the walls, the floors, the window sills, and other hidden places in your home. If you’re not careful, mold can start to grow in any of those areas. You can help prevent this by taking the following precautions:
- Use fans and open windows to air out condensation, especially after taking a hot shower or boiling water.
- Promptly repair any water leaks in your home. Inspect your roof, foundation, and other home structures for leaks and get them taken care of immediately.
- Don’t allow water to pool or sit anywhere. Keep things dry, and wipe up spills or drips right away.
- Air out your home frequently by using ceiling fans and opening windows so condensation can’t accumulate.
Signs of Mold Growth
Mold growth in winter can be difficult to identify because it’s often hidden underneath or behind permanent fixtures, like showers and walls. Keep an eye out for the following signs that you might have mold growing in your home:
- A persistent musty odor
- Visible growth of a fuzzy substance that might be grey, black, yellow, green, white, or brown
- Stains or discoloration from water damage
- Excess condensation gathering in one area
- Water leaks
If you suspect you have mold growing in your home, your first instinct is probably to try and clean it up. Unfortunately, it’s a lot harder to get rid of than you may think. Mold remediation by a licensed professional is the safest and most effective way to restore your home to its prior, mold-free state.
Black Diamond Water Damage & Disaster Restoration Can Help
Mold growth in winter isn’t as uncommon as you might think. If you discover you have a mold problem, Black Diamond Water Damage & Disaster Restoration is here to help. Our mold remediation team is fully licensed and certified, and we pride ourselves on offering fast and friendly service. In addition to mold remediation, we offer biohazard cleanup, storm damage repair, fire damage restoration, sewage damage cleanup, and water damage restoration.
We are available to help restore homes and businesses in Murray, Utah, and the neighboring cities, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whatever your emergency, Black Diamond Water Damage & Disaster Restoration can help. Give us a call today!
