6 Tips to Prevent Attic Mold | Attic mold is extremely common. Many homeowners never or hardly go into their attic. Therefore, if there are issues they may get worse.
The first step in any mold remediation process is to determine what is causing the mold. Determining the source and fixing the source can help prevent more damage. Below we will discuss the causes of attic mold and how to prevent mold from growing.
Inspecting the Attic
Homeowners should check their attics more frequently for any issues.
What to look for:
Black/dark staining on attic sheathing and/or insulation
White spots on attic sheathing
Water staining
Frost and or/condensation
If you see any of the above in your attic contact a professional Mold Remediation company to come conduct their own inspection.
Determine the Source
The first step in any mold remediation process is to determine the source of the mold. The most common causes for attic mold are:
Roof leaks
Poor ventilation
Insufficient insulation or poorly installed insulation
Improper or poor venting of bathroom & kitchen exhaust vents, and dryer vents
The causes of mold growth should be repaired before any remediation is conducted. If the sources of mold are NOT solved and mold remediation is performed the mold can come back.
Roof Leaks
Inspect the insulation and wood for discoloration, as this may be a sign of water damage.
Areas prone to water intrusion are:
Where the two roofs join
Area around plumbing stacks or chimneys
Poor Ventilation
The moisture levels in your attic can increase without adequate ventilation.
This is very important during the winter. Warm air rises to the ceiling, enters the attic, and condenses on the cold surfaces.
Without sufficient ventilation moisture can not escape.
Finally, make sure your vents or soffits are not blocked or covered by insulation.
Insufficient Insulation
Attic insulation controls the temperature and moisture levels in the attic.
Have the attic floor adequately insulated to minimize the air transfer between the living area below and the attic space.
Contact an insulation installation contractor to determine if the insulation in your attic is sufficient.
Improper Venting
Dryer, kitchen, and bathroom vents should always be ducted outside of your home and not into the attic.
Otherwise, the moisture being released into the attic can cause mold growth.
Attic Mold Remediation
Attic mold CAN be prevented. Make sure you check your attic regularly for any issues. If issues are found SOLVE those issues as soon as possible. If mold growth is present contact a professional Mold Remediation company to perform an inspection.
Next, get estimates for the remediation and have a professional remediate the mold.