Mold growth is a common problem in Canadian homes during the winter season. There are several reasons for this, including the fact that houses are often closed up tightly to keep out the cold. Additionally, there is often more moisture in the air due to heating.
Read on to know exactly why Canadian winters are most likely to cause mold growth and what you can do about it.
What Is Mold?
It is a type of fungi that can grow both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in warm, damp, and humid environments and can cause serious health problems for humans, including respiratory issues and skin irritation. Mold can be black, white, green, or orange and is often fuzzy or slimy in appearance.
Mold rapidly increases in population by releasing spores into the air. You cannot see these tiny spores with your naked eye, but they can easily be inhaled. When inhaled, they can lead to some health problems. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported in 2002 that mold exposure could cause a range of respiratory illnesses, from hay fever-like symptoms to more serious conditions like asthma.
Signs of Mold in Your Home
There are a few tell-tale signs that mold is growing in your home. These include:
- A musty or earthy smell
- Visible mold growth
- Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Peeling paint
- Excessive condensation on windows
Call a professional mold removal company if you see any of these signs and think the problem is severe.
Why Is Mold More Common in Winter?
There are several reasons why mold is more common in winter. As mentioned earlier, homes are often tightly sealed to keep out the cold during the winter. This lack of ventilation creates the perfect environment for mold growth. Also, there is often more moisture in the air due to heating, contributing to mold growth.
Moreover, the winter season is typically when we see the most rain and snow. This moisture can seep into our homes, creating the perfect conditions for mold to grow.
Prevention Tips for Mold Growth
- Fix leaks in your roof, walls, or pipes as soon as possible.
- Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms like the basement or laundry room.
- Ensure your gutters are clean and draining properly.
- Maintain good ventilation in your home by opening doors and windows when weather permits.
- Regularly clean areas where mold is likely to grow, such as the bathroom, kitchen, and basement.
- If you find minor mold in your home, scrub it with a solution of bleach and water (1 cup of bleach for every gallon of water). Afterward, make sure the area is well-ventilated until it’s completely dry. You may also need to throw away any porous materials that have been affected, such as carpets, drywall, or insulation.
- Prevent condensation from forming on surfaces by maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home to prevent condensation from forming on surfaces.
Keep in Mind
While mold is more common in winter, it can grow year-round. It’s important to be vigilant about mold growth and prevent it. Consider following the simple tips above, so you can help keep your home mold-free all year long.
Call a professional mold removal company if you have any concerns regarding molds. They’re the right people to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. When hiring mold experts, ask for recommendations or look online by searching “restoration company near me” to find one within your community.
