Attic Mold

From Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
Mold is everywhere, even in our attic. Attic Mold is often over looked and goes unnoticed for many reasons. Attics are typically dark, dreary and not frequently visited. Attics are those out of the way places where mold will thrive if the proper conditions exist. Homeowners don’t usually notice attic mold because it is usually only pointed out buy a building inspector or a contractor doing work in the attic area. Mold in an attic will usually start to form and grow between the sheathing or plywood covering the frame of the house. The plywood also works as a part of the structural integrity of the frame of the home, supporting the roof and shingles. Mold can form and grow in the most unlikely of places. Most mold or fungi will appear as black grayish looking in color or even green in some cases. Wood framing that appears to be discolored or damp looking should be inspected for mold and addressed immediately.
Professional mold servicing company

Mold will from many different areas where dampness and moisture is found. Typically mold will start to grow where there is little or no ventilation. Water and moisture are trapped and blocked from escaping in areas such as soffits, eves and overhangs that aren’t vented properly and may be blocked by debris or other forms of scrap building material left over from the initial construction phase of the home.

Newer constructed homes are more likely to form mold and fungi that older homes because of the many improvements and advances in home construction. Newer improvements in engineering are making new homes stronger, better insulated and more energy efficient than older homes. This also works against us as that the newer homes are unable to breath as well as the older homes trapping condensation causing moisture to build up and cause mold and mildew to grow..
Mold in the attic of my house

Other forms of condensation leading to the growth of mold in attics can be contributed to water leaking from improperly installed flashing around chimneys and venting areas of the roof. Water leaks in and causes condensation to build trapped in areas without ventilation causing mold to go out of control.

Ensure all vents leading through the attic of the house to outside of the home are securely fastened and leak proof. Air conditioning systems can leak onto the insulation in the attic and form toxic mold dangerous to humans and to the environment.

Attic ventilation is the number one cause of mold and fungi in attics. Ventilation is critical to a safe dry humid free attic in the winter or summer season.

Because knowledge is the best way to combat mold and fungi in your attic or other parts of your home, be sure to educate yourself in all aspects of mold awareness, control and remediation. Inspection and awareness is the key to mold prevention and to maintain the safety of your home and your family. In the event you believe you may have discovered mold in your attic or other areas of your home, be sure to address the problem immediately. Allowing mold to grow will only prolong the inevitable. Some level of remediation will be required at some point. The best way to start would be with a do it yourself sample mold test kit that you can purchase on the internet or at a local hardware store. This will give you some indication of the type of mold and the extent of infestation if any. If after the test is positive, always contact a mold professional immediately. After an inspection has been completed by a mold professional, you will have a better idea of the severity and the level of infestation not to mention the damage and repair costs involved. Some levels of mold can be treated by the home owner and a do it yourself kit with the proper guidance and trained supervision. To play it safe always consult with a trained mold and remediation technician for the best and safest results. Remember, if mold is not treated properly, its only a matter of time before the problem returns.

By: Bradley Skierkowski