Insulation & Avoiding House Mold

Mold grows on damp foundation walls.

Every home contains some mold, but excessive mold can lead to serious health problems. Mold can grow on practically any surface, including insulation. Replacing the insulation and reducing humidity in the home can help people avoid the health problems associated with mold.

Mold

The Environmental Protection Agency defines mold as a form of life that thrives on moisture and reproduces by emitting airborne spores. Molds can cause asthma attacks, allergic reactions or even lung infections.

Danger Areas

Mold can grow in any part of a home where moisture or humidity can gather, from obvious sites such as shower curtains and plumbing to hidden areas such as insulation, foundations or the concrete underneath carpeting.

Insulation

Leaky water pipes can encourage mold growth. Since mold can grow on insulation materials, insulated pipes, ducts and foundation walls can all collect mold.

Moldy Insulation

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, homeowners must remove and replace moldy insulation or wallboard because mold will not come out of those materials.

Prevention

Proper ventilation, including HVAC filter maintenance, leak repairs and air purification measures, can reduce humidity and prevent mold buildup in insulation.

References

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Mold Resources
• Toxic Black Mold Information Center: Ways to Prevent Mold
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Facts about Stachybotrys Chartarum and Other Molds