Top 10 reasons why your home has mould

Mould is not just a nuisance but a health hazard as well.

It tends to grow where ever suitable conditions like right moisture and temperature are met. Most common areas are in the bathrooms, bedrooms, around windows where moisture could be trapped because of poor ventilation or regular moisture sources.

Though it is not commonly harmful immediately on exposure, however, long term exposure is known to cause or exacerbate respiration problems.

Prerna from Ministry Of Cleaning, one of the Mould Removal Experts in Melbourne, has shared some common reasons for mould infestation.

As mentioned earlier, mould can grow just about anywhere but most common areas where you can spot it is bathroom shower enclosure, ceilings, gyprock walls around windows, basements, carpeted floor corners, structured timber behind drywall, and even clothes and shoes. It thrives on trapped moisture with the right temperature.

Did you know mould can grow in as soon as 24 hours?

No or poor ventilation fuels mould growth.

Without further ado, here are the top reason why your home has mould:

1. Trapped Moisture / Constant Humidity

Moisture build-up inside the houses increases mould growth, so maintain proper ventilation.

2. Plumbing Leaks

This is another common reason for mould behind walls or under Kitchen Sink. So, if you spot a leak, fix it or get a plumber sooner rather than later.

3. Roof Leaks

Whether it is due to recent hail damage or the roof is too old, a minor leak can increase the moisture level inside the attic and can cause mould on the structural timber or insulation. This is also a common reason for ceiling Mould in the bedroom or around the house.

4. Winter Condensation Build Ups

Australian winters can be harsh especially in Melbourne and Canberra. So, come winter, condensation on outer surfaces starts building up and favours mould.

Moreover, since opening windows in cold & winding weather could be impractical, and ventilation becomes difficult leading to this fungi and mould spores.

5. Lack Of Ventilation

As previously mentioned, poor ventilation is prime reason for constant moisture and thereby leading to mould growth and higher mould spores concentration.

Wet and Damp LaundryYou need to be with me on this. We have all seen cold, windy & misty winters, especially in Melbourne and Canberra. Most of the winter days, you are waiting for weather to be better so you can put washed clothes outside to dry, and the damp clothes are sitting inside adding to moisture.

6. Flooding

This is a nasty one. If there has been any flooding incident in your home, big or small, whether carpet or hard floor, mould will follow unless prevented beforehand. This is not DIY and needs professionals.

8. Closed Basement

Dark is another reason that favours mould. Basements are generally dark and cold. And add moisture to it, and you have a perfect recipe for the mould outbreak.

9. Damp Foundation

Depending on the slope of your land that your house is sitting on or the way front or backyard landscaping been done, water might not be draining away from your house, and rather might be trickling around the foundation. That generally causes mould on the walls.

10. A Leaking Heating or Air-Conditioning System

Both heating and cooling units deal with moisture and condensation, and if the water inlet or outlet is not sealed properly, there could be moisture build-up leading to mould in ducts, pipes or even filters.

If you are still not sure about it, get a professional to test your house for a mould inspection.

Also, Read this :- How to get your spring cleaning done right

Mick runs a Digital Marketing agency in Canberra and has been providing Technology consulting for 17+ years.