If you’ve had to deal with a mold problem in your home, you’re probably wondering if those fuzzy, ugly patches will come back to haunt you after remediation. The good news is that as long as the moisture issues that allowed mold to grow in the first place are properly fixed, mold should not return or continue growing.
Moisture Is mold’s best friend. Mold spores are always present floating around in the air inside and outside. We bring spores in on our clothes, groceries, pet paws and even thrift store finds! However, mold spores require moisture to germinate and grow into active mold colonies. Without a consistent moisture source, mold simply cannot take hold and thrive in your home.
That’s why successful mold remediation always includes finding and directing repair of the underlying moisture problems that led to mold growth.
Common culprits include:
- Leaks from plumbing, roofs, windows, etc.
- High indoor humidity levels
- Groundwater seeping into basements/crawlspaces
- Flood damage
- Leaky windows
- Condensation issues
If these moisture sources are not eliminated, then mold will simply keep coming back after remediation. Reputable remediation companies will identify and either repair moisture problems themselves or recommend a contractor.
Most mold remediation warranties require moisture control, conditional on the home remaining dry going forward. Typical warranty language voids coverage if new moisture issues arise that allow mold to re-grow.
This makes sense – if you don’t control moisture, you’re essentially undoing the remediation work. Mold remediation is not a one-and-done deal. It requires continued moisture management by the homeowner through measures like:
- Promptly repairing leaks
- Maintaining indoor humidity at 30-50%
- Using exhaust fans when cooking/showering
- Ensuring proper drainage around the home’s foundation
As long as a home remains dry after remediation, mold should not return or continue growing. But if moisture strikes back, so too may mold colonies. The key is controlling moisture sources to keep your home free of active mold growth.