Winter Mold Myths Debunked: Can Cold Weather Kill Mold?

Chicagoland property owners might feel tempted to breathe a sigh of relief when the cool weather rolls in. The cold months seem to bring relief from some pests and allergens, so wouldn’t mold disappear, too? 

Unfortunately, the idea that freezing weather naturally eradicates mold is one of the most persistent mold myths. In reality, mold doesn’t die just because temperatures drop — it goes dormant, ready to resurface when conditions allow.

This common misconception can lead to unexpected problems and costly remediation for unwary home and business owners. Let’s explore why it’s essential to stay vigilant and what proactive steps you can take to prevent mold from spreading in your home, even during the colder months.

Separating Fact From Fiction

Fact: There is no safe level of indoor mold exposure. Even small amounts of mold or dormant spores can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems.

While outdoor temperatures may be freezing, mold can survive in sheltered areas, such as under eaves, in mulch piles, or within the walls of buildings. These areas can retain heat and moisture, allowing many types of fungus to continue growing.

Mold spores need water to grow, as well as oxygen, food, and temps between 40 degrees and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. As we seal up our buildings to keep out the cold, we inadvertently create environments that can foster mold growth. Lack of ventilation leads to increased indoor humidity, providing the moisture mold needs to thrive.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cold air and snow do not kill germs, bacteria, or viruses, either, so it’s crucial to protect your family by ensuring your living space is free from excess moisture that can help these organisms thrive.

With approximately 37 inches of average snowfall and heating systems maintaining a comfortable indoor atmosphere, unwanted fungal guests may find still a welcoming home in your basement, kitchen, or bathroom. 

Cold surfaces in poorly insulated areas can lead to condensation, creating damp spots where mold can flourish. Common problem areas include:

  • Windows and doors
  • Exterior walls
  • Basements and crawl spaces
  • Attics with inadequate insulation

In addition, the EPA recommends that indoor relative humidity (RH) should be kept between 30 and 50 percent; RH levels above 60% can lead to fungal growth. Steam from showers, cooking, and even regular house cleaning can introduce moisture into the air, and this dampness can create a perfect breeding ground for mold, regardless of how cold it is outside.

Winter Challenges for Chicagoland Property Owners

The upcoming winter season brings its own set of water-related challenges that can contribute to mold growth:

These issues often go unnoticed until spring, giving mold ample time to establish a tenacious foothold on your property. 

In the cold months, and especially over the holidays, people frequently fill their homes with candles, greenery, and other comforting scents, which can make it more difficult to detect tell-tale signs like musty odors and present dangerous fire hazards.

Damp coats and other fabrics are a prime target for mildew during this time, and high home humidity levels can make it difficult to dry these items. Ensure your outerwear has a place to hang and dry out that’s properly ventilated, and don’t let water collect on your flooring. Drying clothes on radiators can increase the amount of moisture in the air.

Turning on heating systems can inadvertently spread mold spores throughout your living and working spaces. Air ducts that haven’t been cleaned or that contain hidden mold colonies can circulate spores throughout the home when the heat kicks on, potentially leading to an increase in symptoms for anyone sensitive to mycotoxins.

What You Can Do to Fight Back

While it may seem that mold is inevitable (it’s estimated to be present in at least 47% of homes), there are moves you can make to help keep it at bay. The frigid Chicago winter may seem like a natural deterrent, but the reality is that this resilient organism can survive even in the harshest conditions. 

The most important thing you can do is make sure that your home or business has adequate ventilation to reduce indoor humidity levels. Open your windows if possible, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and consider using a portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaner. 

Prevent condensation from forming on pipes by insulating them. Warm air meets cold surfaces, condensation forms and drips, and mold can develop. This is especially important in basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Remember that dust and dirt can provide food for mold. Regular cleaning can remove some of the organic material that spores utilize as a food source.

Any water damage, no matter how small, should be addressed immediately. Dry out affected areas thoroughly to prevent mold growth, and regularly inspect your property for signs of mold, such as funky smells, discoloration, or visible fungal growth.

If you suspect a mold infestation, it’s essential to contact a professional mold remediation company. Our expert team at PuroClean of Evanston has the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove mold and restore your property.

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