The leading causes of mould and how to prevent it

When it comes to mould, knowledge is power. Find out all about this fungus – including how to prevent mould from growing in your home.

Mould can be an irritant or worse for the average homeowner, and since Health Canada considers it to be a potential health hazard, it’s not something to be taken lightly. But knowledge is power. Find out everything there is to know about this fungus – including how to prevent mould from growing in your home.

The development of mould in your home depends on a perfect storm of conditions, including the existence of:

• Mould spores
• Wood, drywall or cotton, which are materials that acts as a food source for mould
• Darkness, since mould can’t grow under ultraviolet light
• Warmth, since it can’t grow in freezing temperatures
• Oxygen, which helps mould grow
• Moisture, such as water leaks or humidity

Of all these elements, moisture is key, since it’s the only avoidable condition. This is why mould typically grows in spots where water can fall, such as on window sills and in basements, kitchens and bathrooms.

The first step in learning how to prevent mould is to know the common issues that lead to its growth. These include:

• Leaking pipes: In worst case scenarios, leaks occur inside a wall hidden from view, so that by the time they are discovered, mould has already developed.
• Roof leaks: Likewise, a roof that leaks into the attic may also not be discovered until it’s too late.
• Condensation: Cold metal pipes and concrete floors and walls are prime locations for condensation and therefore, mould, even in cases where they are covered by carpet.
• Poor ventilation: Moist air, especially in bathrooms or kitchens where there tends to be a lot of steam, can result in mould.
• Wet clothing: Damp clothes left in a pile can lead to mould growth not only on the garments themselves, but also on surrounding surfaces.
• A damp basement: Basements tend to contain more humidity or moisture because they are colder, which can cause condensation.
• Water at your home’s foundation: If the ground outside slopes towards your home, then rainwater may build up at your foundation, creating a perfectly damp environment for mould to breed.

Prevent excessive moisture – and therefore prevent mould – through proper home maintenance and by following these simple steps:

• Repair any leaks as soon as possible
• Ensure tubs and sinks are sealed tightly
• Clean and dry surfaces that get wet
• Use the exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom, particularly when cooking or showering
• Make sure clothes dryers are properly vented to the outside
• Keep your home’s humidity at or below 50 per cent in the summer and between 30 and 35 per cent in the winter
• Avoid storing fabrics, such as food, paper and wood, in your basement
• Avoid hanging wet clothes on an indoor clothesline
• Install downspouts to take rainwater away from your foundation
• Clean your eavestroughs regularly

Ultimately, the best way to avoid mould is to keep your home dry and clean. As a bonus, it will look better, too.