Mold in the house: 6 possible causes

Discovering mold in your home is more than just a cosmetic issue; it's a sign of underlying moisture problems that can harm your health and decrease property value. Addressing mold requires identifying and eliminating its root causes, such as poor ventilation or damp walls, making professional assessment and intervention essential for maintaining a healthy living environment and safeguarding your investment.

Have you discovered mold in your old or new home? Then it's important to address it effectively. Mold generally indicates a moisture problem, so tackling it superficially isn't advisable. It's important to eliminate the cause of the mold. Mold can be caused by condensation, penetrating damp, or rising damp, for example. The cause of the mold must first be identified and then addressed.

Mold is bad for your health and detrimental to your home's value. If a building inspection report reveals mold in your home due to, for example, poor ventilation, it might recommend installing mechanical ventilation. This would incur costs for any potential buyer.

Mold due to condensation

Hot steam generated during cooking can be a cause of mold. But showering, bathing, or drying clothes on a clothes rack can also be culprits. These three actions cause condensation, caused by the cooling of warm air. If this condensation isn't adequately removed, mold can develop. Installing a ventilation system often provides the solution, provided it's done professionally.

Penetrating or rising damp

A fourth reason for mold can be penetrating damp. This is often due to problems with the facade's moisture management. This moisture penetrates into the interior walls, which in such a situation provide a fertile breeding ground for mold. The facade's moisture management can be disrupted by cracks or damaged mortar. Repairing and/or impregnating the facade can be a perfect solution in this case.

White, dry deposits on walls

Sometimes, in addition to mold, saltpeter efflorescence can also be seen on walls. This dry, white efflorescence is particularly common on brick walls. This is often caused by groundwater rising to the walls. The combination of moisture, bacteria , and salts in the groundwater causes saltpeter efflorescence. This cause can also be addressed, for example, by injecting the walls or undercutting them. Poor ventilation or hygiene can also be a cause of mold. Ample ventilation is important, as is keeping wet areas clean.

Mold, a health hazard

Mold in the home can have all sorts of unpleasant consequences, particularly physical complaints. Allergies, fatigue, headaches, lung problems, rashes, and other discomforts can all be caused by mold. When the indoor environment is disrupted, it's important to have a professional team assess the situation and have experts take the necessary steps.

Limiting mold damage

Have you got your eye on a new home? Then it's definitely recommended to have a building inspection performed. This way, you can see exactly what the condition of the house is and what maintenance is needed. Feel free to inquire about the inspection options and contact us.

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