How Does Mold Spread in the Home?

Mold can present serious health risks if it invades your living space. Unfortunately for homeowners, many don’t realize what it takes to inhibit growth or stop its spread. If you have concerns about mold taking root in your home or business, learn more about how it spreads and thrives in certain environments.

Spore Release

Mold doesn’t propagate the way you might expect from bacteria or pathogens. It’s a fungus, so it sends spores out and away to reproduce. Those unsightly spots you see on moldy food and other infected areas are actually the bodies where spores are stored; these ultimately act as a launching pad to send their spawn throughout various areas of the house.

Mold Facilitators

All it takes are four “ingredients” for mold to take root: a sturdy surface, heat, oxygen, and moisture. When indoor moisture is elevated, such as with water leaks or high humidity, it’s far easier for mold to spread rapidly. Since most homes have circulating air in them, spores are naturally caught in the currents and settle wherever the conditions are right in other rooms or spaces. This is especially problematic when the mold originates in the basement or other low spots, since warm air rises and inevitably travels up through the house, exposing it on every level. If you, family members, or pets move around the mold at all, it can be spread by regular foot traffic.

Mold Survival

Organic materials high in cellulose are mold’s favorite substances to “eat,” meaning many households have everything it needs to survive. Matter like wood, leaves, and carbohydrate-rich foods are more than enough to help it grow. It’s also worth noting that mold can grow on non-organic materials like plastic and carpeting if there’s enough dirt or dust to provide a food source. So long as materials are plentiful and moisture levels are high, mold can easily end up thriving in your home.

If you’re concerned about a possible mold infestation, call ASAP Environmental, Inc. Our team has nearly 20 years of experience serving Boston and the New England region with certified lead, mold, and asbestos inspections. Whether your mold situation is minor or serious, we’ll give your home a comprehensive analysis so you can better protect it and also provide answers to all of your questions. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.

Image from Wikimedia Commons.