Attic mold is not a mystery. It just may be a surprise to you!
Attic mold has become a very common problem in the Chicagoland area. The science of an attic space was not considered to be an important part of home building until recently. Subdivisions where the same builder constructed all of the homes, typically have the same issues. Many homebuilders have drastically changed their building practices. This has helped keep attic mold from being a common issue in new construction. While builders, realtors, and home inspectors are all well aware of attic mold, it may be a surprise to you!
The root cause issues are as important as the problem itself!
Over the years we have found that the discovery of mold can become the primary concern/focus of the homeowner. It is true that a surprise mold discovery should be a priority item, but what about the underlying root cause issues? I always liken the scenario to a cut that needs stitches receiving just a band aid. While we can clean up your mold issue, and get you back to “clean” again, it is imperative to remember that some deficiency led to the mold problem in the first place.
How does an attic “work?”
Generally, your attic is meant to be conditioned by the outdoor environment. This means that the temperature in your attic should mirror the outdoor temperature. Most people think that mold develops in the attic during hot/humid months, however most of the time, the growth takes place in the winter months. The reason for this is simple, when the air temperature in the attic is warmer than the surface temperature of your roof, dew point is reached and the attic begins to sweat. Over an extended period of time, a wet attic leads to mold problems. A home free of attic mold generally has good air flow moving cold air in from the eaves and forcing warm air out through the upper vents on the roof.
What are the pesky root cause issues?
We will go into greater depth on each of the below issues in later posts, however it is good information to know what some of these root cause problems can be. They are definitely not limited to, but do include:
- Insufficient insulation.
- Bathroom exhaust fans blowing directly into the attic.
- Insufficient number of eave vents (lower ventilation) and/or upper vents (mushroom caps or ridge vent).
- Insulation blocking eave vents.
- Improperly installed baffles in attic.
- Humidifier on furnace set too high.
What should you do if you suspect you have a mold problem?
Call a professional! Guardian Mold Prevent specializes mold removal. Give us a call for a free onsite evaluation and estimate at 866.681.6653
You may also consider a contacting a contractor that can help you correct the underlying root cause issues. We generally recommend The Attic Experts.