One of the most common issues found by home inspectors is mold infestation. Mold develops in damp areas like your bathroom and your kitchen. You may see signs of mold infestation through discolorations on ceilings and walls.Here are some of the reasons for the presence of mold:
- Fabric Mats – An ultra-absorbent bath mat that prevents water from spreading throughout your bathroom floor, retains moisture and allows the microorganisms to multiply fast. This also happens when you leave your wet/damp towel in the bathroom without any ventilation or sunlight.
- Poor Ventilation – Mold formation happens fast if your bathroom has poor ventilation because the moisture is trapped when the air doesn’t circulate well. Mold will grow once moisture collects on bathroom surfaces, fixtures, tiles, curtains, and cabinets.
- Failure To Wipe Surfaces Regularly – Your bathroom is unavoidably damp since it’s an area of your house where water is mostly used. You have to ensure that the moisture left after using your bathroom is reduced. Examples are floor corners, toilets, and sinks. Wipe your bathroom fixtures as frequently as possible, especially those that collect water. Doing this will prevent fast fungal growth.
- Pipe Leaks – Pipe leaks are not always seen and could be present inside your bathroom walls. A small leak is enough to produce moisture and lead to fungal growth and mold infestation. Since you are unaware of these leaks because you can’t see them, mold growth is very likely.
- Visible Leaks – Spores become mold when they have access to a food source, oxygen, and moisture. These are the factors you should try to reduce in your bathroom. If there are signs of a leak in your bathroom, you have to address it immediately.
Your bathroom may be the most vulnerable to mold infestation, but you can also apply what you’ve learned to other areas in the house that may accumulate moisture. You should have your home inspector check for any signs of mold infestation.
