What Causes Mold in Homes?
Mold spores may enter a home through windows or open doors, and can be brought into the home after attaching to people and pets. In order for a mold spore to grow there must be (1) abundant moisture, (2) the correct temperature range, and (3) a food source. Sources of Moisture. Moisture can come from a variety of sources. Many modern homes and buildings are constructed in a very air-tight manner. While this is great for insulation purposes, it reduces the building’s ability to “breathe” — lessening the potential drying effects of natural air circulation. Moisture may enter a building as a result of flooding, through broken pipes, or as a result of excessive rain. Moisture in a home or building may soak carpeting and other materials, creating a moist food source on which mold may attach and grow. Moisture may also enter a building through walls and living spaces by way of leaks in the roof, walls, or windows. Such leaks may be a result of poor construction, faulty design, or faulty bui