How Does Water Damage Lead to Attic Mold

Water damage is the number one cause of mold removal in Vaughan. In our experience at MoldTech, water damage is the most challenging to discover and diagnose when it hits the attic. Black mold removal is often straightforward when it comes from a leak or a flood, but the tight, dark, cramped quarters of the attic add extra challenges. Many of our clients wish to prevent attic mold growth from water damage but don’t know why it happens or what to look out for. In this article, our team will explain the where, why, and how of attic mold, so that you can avoid attic mold removal and ensure your home is a healthy and safe place to grow. 

Common Sources of Water Damage in Attics

There are several ways that water enters the attic. Of course, it’s not supposed to — shingles and roofing should keep moisture out. But damage from storms, age, or seasonal changes does happen and can lead to gaps and holes in the roof or flashing. Roof damage is easy to spot with the naked eye, and homeowners can do a quick visual inspection after major storms. 

Moisture doesn’t just enter from outside the attic — it can come from within, too. Condensation can build up from poor ventilation or high indoor humidity. Even though it’s a minimal amount of moisture, once it settles on sheathing or joists, condensation can spark attic mold growth in a short amount of time. 

And lastly, our team always pays close attention to attics that have HVAC or plumbing in them. Excess heat can cause humidity to rise, and rusty joints, freeze and thaw cycles, and age can all cause pipes to leak or burst. 

How Water Damage Promotes Mold Growth

Once water is in your attic, mold can begin to grow in as little as 48 hours. Mold thrives in dark, moist, and warm environments like the attic, and when there’s little disruption from air movement or human activity, it can spread rapidly. Water can also permeate materials like wood and insulation, ensuring that moisture sticks around for longer. 

Signs of Attic Mold

How do you know when you need attic mold removal? Some common signs can indicate mold is present. While visible mold growth is possible, it’s more likely to remain hidden, making these signs extra important. Watch out for: 

• A strong musty odour emanating from the attic. 
• Warped or discoloured drywall or structural elements. 
• An increase in coughing, sneezing, or allergies. 

Preventing Future Attic Mold

Professional black mold removal is the only way to safely and effectively eradicate mold from your home. While regular visual inspections of the roof, prompt repairs, and careful retrofitting to create adequate ventilation can prevent most infestations, accidents happen! 

At MoldTech, we work with our clients to safely remediate mold-affected rooms. Mold inspection and remediation will also help you identify what caused the infestation, enabling you to put into place preventative strategies to avoid repeat visits. Let our expertise assess your attic through mold inspection; call or email MoldTech for safe, effective mold removal in Vaughan.

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