Attic Mold: What Westport Homeowners Need To Know

One critical part of your Connecticut home that you may not pay much attention to is your attic. Since it’s an area you seldom spend time in, it’s easy for it to be neglected or ignored. However, your attic can develop problems that can impact the rest of your home if not repaired. One very common problem is attic mold.

Moisture from many different sources can build up in your attic and create the perfect conditions for mold growth. Roof leaks, poor ventilation, condentation issues, and appliances or exhaust fans that blow hot moist air into the attic are common sources of attic moisture. If too much moisture builds up and mold starts to grow, there are numerous problems that can result. Here’s what Westport homeowners need to know about protecting their family and property from this potentially dangerous issue.

What Causes Attic Mold to Grow?

The attic is a very common place for mold to grow: If you are dealing with this issue, you are not alone. Mold comes from fungi spores that are found naturally almost everywhere, inside and outside. Problems occur when these spores attach themselves to surfaces and multiply into large mold colonies.

For significant mold growth, the right conditions must be present. Mold thrives in temperatures between 41 and 140 degrees fahrenheit, and humidity levels of 50% or more. In your attic, the warm temperatures and wet weather during the Connecticut summer and early fall creates the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

The most common causes for high levels of humidity in an attic are roof and siding leaks, improper ventilation, a lack of insulation, and incorrect venting from moisture sources like the home’s exhaust fans or appliances. All of these issues can create warm, moist conditions where mold will happily grow on wood, paper, and other natural materials.

Is Attic Mold Dangerous?

Attic mold can be extremely dangerous to both your family and to the structure of your home. The mold in your attic can travel through your home via the vents and air ducts in your HVAC system. Exposure to mold can cause symptoms like sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and fatigue. Family members who are immune compromised, have asthma, allergies, or other respiratory illnesses will be most affected. Attic mold can also create unpleasant musty odors in your home, and eventually can weaken wood beams and spread to the insulation, drywall, and plywood in your attic, leading to significant structural issues.

Safely Get Rid of Attic Mold With Help From Riverside Restoration

How long has it been since you have inspected your attic for mold? The first step is to look for evidence of leaks or other sources of unwanted moisture. Next, look for the mold itself. Mold growing on surfaces like roof beams or in attic corners will have a black or dark green color, and might just look like dirt from far away. Even if you can’t see any evidence of mold, if your attic smells musty or musky, mold could be growing in hidden areas like behind walls, in the insulation, or under the flooring.

If you have any concerns about water damage and mold at your home, get help today from Riverside Restoration. Our expert team can handle water damage from any source, and knows how to safely remove mold and mildew. We are ready to be your guide through the restoration process, including working with your homeowners insurance company. Don’t let attic mold put your home or family in danger - contact us today.