The Return of the Mold: Conditions That Lead to Recurring Fungal Issues

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

If your commercial property in Clear Lake, TX, experiences a mold growth problem, you might consider cleaning it yourself and calling it a day. What happens when the mold returns, though? Several conditions can lead to a recurring mold problem in the same place, and remediation is likely to require certified technicians with the necessary training to resolve the problem thoroughly.

Humidity

Excessive indoor moisture is the main culprit that contributes to the growth of mold. Many things can increase the humidity level of your building:

• Cracks in walls that let outside moisture in
• Poor insulation 
• Condensation on pipes or other surfaces
• Improper ventilation

If you see condensation, clean it up immediately. Adding storm windows and doors not only improves your energy efficiency, it can also lower indoor humidity levels. Regular maintenance and use of HVAC systems can help air to circulate better and keep more moisture out of the air.

Hyphae

During the inspection step of the mold remediation process, technicians may notice large concentrations of hyphae. While hyphae may not be so alarming in outdoor air samples, their presence in indoor samples indicate that there is a mold growth problem somewhere in the building. A group of hyphae, called a mycelium, is the way fungus feeds off an organic nutrient source. Even if mold is removed once, a collection of hyphae speeds up the process of regrowth, making cleanup efforts seem to have been in vain.

Water Damage

Another reason mold becomes a recurring problem is an unresolved water damage issue. If a leak or a flood has damaged elements of the building’s structure, and that damage has not been dealt with, mold is just going to keep coming back. The only way to prevent mold from returning is to eliminate the water damage.

If a test of your commercial building in Clear Lake, TX, reveals that there is mold growth somewhere, don’t panic. Resolve the moisture issues caused by high humidity and water, and you are on the road to mold remediation. For more information about mold remediation, visit http://www.SERVPROclearlake.com/.