Why does the mold keep coming back?

11/13/2024 (Permalink)

With the right approach, you can stop mold from becoming a recurring issue in your home.

Dealing with recurring mold in your home can be frustrating. No matter how many times you clean it, it keeps coming back. Understanding the reasons behind this persistent problem is key to preventing mold from becoming a long-term issue. Here at SERVPRO® of Southwest Fort Worth, we’ve helped countless homeowners address recurring mold, and we’re sharing expert insights on why mold keeps returning.

What Causes Mold to Keep Coming Back?

Mold thrives in environments with moisture, warmth, and organic material. If you eliminate visible mold but don’t address the root cause—excess moisture—it will inevitably return. Here are some common reasons mold keeps reappearing:

1. Excess Moisture: Leaky pipes, poorly ventilated bathrooms, or a damp basement are all common sources of moisture that can feed mold growth. If you don’t fix the underlying moisture issue, the mold will keep coming back.
2. Inadequate Cleaning: Many household cleaners are not designed to remove mold at the root. While surface-level cleaning might make the mold disappear for a short period, spores can remain deep within materials like drywall, waiting to grow again.
3. Humidity Levels: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor humidity should be kept below 60% to prevent mold growth. If your home’s humidity levels are too high, mold will continue to thrive, even if you clean the visible areas.
4. Porous Surfaces: Mold can penetrate porous surfaces such as drywall, wood, and carpet. Simply wiping the surface doesn’t remove the mold inside the material, which can lead to regrowth over time.

How to Prevent Mold from Returning

Addressing the root causes of mold is crucial to stopping it from coming back. Here are some steps you can take to prevent recurring mold problems:

• Fix Leaks: Check for any leaky pipes, roofs, or windows and repair them immediately.
• Improve Ventilation: Make sure areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements are well-ventilated to reduce moisture buildup.
• Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity levels below 60%. This will make your home less conducive to mold growth.
• Use Mold-Resistant Products: When remodeling or repairing, consider using mold-resistant drywall or paint to limit future growth.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve addressed moisture issues and taken steps to prevent mold but still notice it coming back, it might be time to call in the experts. SERVPRO of Southwest Fort Worth specializes in comprehensive mold remediation services. Our trained professionals can help identify the root cause of your mold problem and ensure it doesn’t return.

With the right approach, you can stop mold from becoming a recurring issue in your home. Let SERVPRO of Southwest Fort Worth assist you with expert solutions to keep your home mold-free for good.