Have you ever thought about how mold can spread quickly in your Arizona home, because it seems too dry for that to happen? Why do some homes in Arizona see continual issues with mold, and they are not because of a lack of cleaning?
As strange as that may seem, a chance for mold growth in Arizona is not due to moisture you can see; it’s the hidden moisture in ventilation, and weather systems unique to the area that support and allow mold to grow more readily than you'd expect and in unexpected places.
In this blog, we will discuss some of the most important reasons why mold spreads quickly, how it can impact your health and home, and the importance of immediate mold remediation services in Arizona to control it before it becomes worse.
Why Mold Spreads So Quickly Through Homes in Arizona
It's easy to conclude that Arizona's desert climate will control mold, but your conclusions often cause you to overlook other environmental factors that actually promote mold growth in homes. It can be as simple as the humidity generated by cooking or showering, or not controlling a humidity issue through your air conditioning system, which creates pockets of moisture. Once mold gets into any of these areas, it can quickly spread in roughly 24 to 48 hours.
1. Hidden Moisture from Air Conditioning Units
Arizonians love to open the fresh air from their air conditioning units each summer. While it is great to get fresh air into the home, air conditioning units can create hidden moisture problems. Moisture builds up inside the ducts and cooling coils and, if allowed to create moisture, can be the optimal breeding ground for mold. Clogged drainage systems or dirty filters are a common way of spreading mold through the HVAC system, which can lead to air and water contamination in the home.
2. Monsoon Season and Unexpected Humidity Surges
Arizona is dry by nature most of the year, but during monsoon season, Arizona is, at times, at a high and unexpected humidity level, and on occasion, floods. Fluctuations in weather can even create trapped humidity in the house, especially in poorly ventilated areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Mold spores will flourish in these moist areas of the house if humidity is not addressed with drying and ventilation immediately. Even if they were not present previously, the materials around them, such as drywall or insulation, would become moldy.
3. Leaks Through the Roof or Around Windows or Plumbing Fixtures
Small leaks through the roof or around windows may be there for weeks and go unnoticed by the homeowner. Once again, the hot temperatures, along with moisture trapped behind a wall or under a floor, will stimulate mold growth. Small plumbing leaks continue to be a common offender. If you have a leak and allow it to continue, it is sometimes reported that there can be organic material mixed with the leak, such as wood, carpet, or drywall. There is going to be black mold, and it can spread quickly.
Common Places Where Mold Grows That You Cannot See
Mold spores are everywhere, and it is only when conditions are favorable that they colonize. Colonization occurs when three things exist: moisture, heat, and an organic material for it to feed on. All of these things are found indoors.
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Bathrooms and kitchens are likely to be the most common locations for mold because of regular use and all the contamination and humidity that arise from that use. Damage to caulking or vents allows contamination and humidity to persist in hidden areas (e.g., behind tiles and cabinets) that eventually become visible after extensive damage.
Basements and Crawl Spaces
Basements are not very common for homes in Arizona, but homes with crawl spaces typically have hidden moisture issues. Problems with drainage, cracks in your foundation, or condensation will cause moisture to build up under your home and eventually allow mold to thrive, which will eventually work its way up through walls and floors.
Attics & Roof Cavities
The furnace-like heat of Arizona causes extreme temperatures in attics. Lack of air circulation and proper venting creates condensation on insulation and rafters, encouraging mold growth. The mold will still grow even when the damage eventually becomes too significant and visible.
Health Risks Related to Mold Exposure
In addition to being unattractive, mold is a danger to your health. Continuous exposure may cause allergic reactions, chronic respiratory problems, and in some cases, infections. Common symptoms of exposure include sneezing, nasal congestion, red eyes, and ongoing coughing.
If there are children, elderly people, or asthma sufferers in the household, mold exposure can significantly worsen symptoms. Toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) produces mycotoxins that can lead to even more serious reactions. Mold removal services in Arizona will take action to contain the problem.
What to Do When You Find Mold
While it may seem surprising, mold can grow quickly in Arizona homes as we encounter so much hidden moisture, poor ventilation, and humidity surges. Be sure to act fast! If you look for early signs, take care of moisture, and hire certified professionals, you can protect your family’s health and the structure of your home.
1. Locate and Control the Moisture Source
You should first locate and stop the moisture source before cleaning any visible mold. It can be a leaky pipe or damage to your roof or land that is causing a condensation problem, or you can’t find the source. The key to preventing continued mold remediation is to stop the moisture at its source.
2. Do Not Use Fans or Air Circulation Devices
This may sound helpful in trying to dry out the area, but any fans will blow spores all around your home or property. Leave the area, and then call the experts directly at mold damage restoration Arizona to contain and remove the affected areas properly and safely.
3. Safe Removal of Wood or Cleanable Surfaces
Porous materials often need to be removed and disposed of when contaminated. This includes drywall, carpet, insulation, and often wood. Without help, you can easily create fine dust from the material and potentially spread the spores.
4. Call the Experts for Safe Removal
The professionals use advanced instruments, such as moisture meters, HEPA vacuums, and air scrubbers, to completely and safely remove mold from your home or commercial property. They will also make sure areas not visible or not as obvious are treated at the same time, ensuring the air is safe to breathe again in your space.
The Importance of Professional Mold Removal
Professional mold remediation not only cleans your property but also prevents mold from reappearing. Some spores grow deep within porous materials and will still reappear after surface cleaning. Professionals have access to thermal imaging and other technology to detect growth that is hidden from most homeowners.
Additionally, licensed professionals can identify the specific type of mold and implement a solution to take care of the issue. They will provide a long-lasting solution, not just a temporary remedy. For homeowners looking for a mold removal company near me, expert remediation is the safest and best choice.
Why Mold Spreads So Rapidly After Water Damage
Water damage, such as leaks, floods, and broken pipes, allows mold spores to multiply with moisture. Spores begin to attach to wet materials in less than 24 hours and will colonize. Mold spreads quickly if immediate drying and disinfection processes do not take place.
Rainbow Restoration of Glendale is your full-service cleanup and remediation partner right in your hometown. Our certified technicians utilize the most advanced drying technology, containment methods, and antimicrobial treatments to restore your home just the way it was, safely and completely.
Our team adapts to your challenges, whether you are dealing with hidden mold behind walls or a visible infestation as a result of water damage. Feel free to contact us for 24/7 emergency response and reliable restoration service.
