Causes of mold:
To fight against mold, we first need to determine the underlying cause of it as prevention is always the best means to fighting against it.
- Excessive levels of humidity.
If you live in an area that is excessively humid, then it’s no wonder you are having a mold problem! Mold colonies thrive in damp climates. Ideally, the humidity level should be around 30-50% if possible.Â
- Condensation on windows
Another cause for mold on your windows could be excess condensation. Condensation can accumulate on the inside of your windows or the outside and is not in and of itself a cause for alarm, but it can potentially cause mold to build up on your windows! Check out our blog on window condensation for more information on prevention.
- Leaky windows
If you have water leaking through your windows, the most common reason is due to faulty sealant around the window. It could however be an issue with the window itself. If you would like a free consultation on your windows, please reach out to us here.
- Faulty ventilation causes water to build up
Poor ventilation can cause humidity and moist air to stay in one place for far too long. Stagnant air and moisture are a good recipe for creating a humid environment in your home and aiding in the creation of mold colonies.
- Failure to regularly clean your windows
If moist air comes into contact with dust and grime, mold is sure to grow. It is a good idea to wipe down your window frames to get rid of dust, and condensation once in a while to keep your home a clean and healthy environment
How to prevent:
- Keep your home well ventilated
Keeping your home ventilated such as keeping interior doors open can help to remove concentrated humidity in certain areas of your home. This can then cut down on the development of water condensation on your windows and henceforward decrease the chance of mold growing on your windows and other areas of your home.
- Minimize indoor moisture formation:
It is a good idea to use lids on pots when boiling water. Also, turn on the vents in your kitchen and bathroom to decrease humid air from hot showers and boiling water in the kitchen.
- Use dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers are one of the best ways to cut down on indoor moisture. They can sometimes be a little bit of an investment depending on which one you buy, but they can help to cut down on mold and also make your home feel more comfortable!
- Insulate your home
If you live in a humid environment then home insulation is a must! Even if you run several dehumidifiers and follow all the other steps to cut down on indoor moisture, if you constantly have humidity coming from outside into your home, then most of your work and precautions will be in vain.
- Regular window cleaning
As stated above, mold likes to grow when moisture comes into contact with dust. If you see dust on your windows, it can be beneficial to clean your windows and make sure to wipe down the frame well! Check out our blog on how to clean your windows like a pro for tips and tricks on window cleaning.
If you follow all these steps above, you should see a decrease or total absence of mold on your windows. If you think that the problem is with your windows, or if you would like to get a free estimate on getting your windows replaced, give us a call or text today at (210) 461-2066, or fill out our form online.