What Causes Mold in West Los Angeles Homes?

1. Flooding

Cause: Flooding can bring a huge amount of water into your home, causing severe water damage and possibly mold growth within 24-48 hours.

Tip: Calling a professional restoration company immediately after the disaster is your best chance of mitigating water damage and preventing mold growth. Professionals have the right equipment and expertise to extract water quickly, dry affected areas, and treat any mold that may have started to grow. Also, take measures to prevent future flooding, such as installing water barriers or improving the drainage system around your home.

2. Increased Humidity

Cause: Increased humidity can occur in homes in many ways — humid weather, continuous rain, cooking, showering, etc.

Tip: To help prevent mold growth in your home, make sure your house is well-ventilated and keep the humidity below 55 percent. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to control indoor humidity, especially in areas prone to excessive moisture, like basements and bathrooms. Place fans in damp areas and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

3. Insufficient Ventilation

Cause: Insufficient ventilation leads to increased humidity and, thus, to mold growth and other problems like indoor pollution. Be sure to have proper ventilation.

Tip: Make sure to open doors and/or windows when practical and to use fans as needed. Ventilate areas where moisture is generated, such as kitchens and bathrooms, by using exhaust fans. Ensure that your dryer vents to the outside and consider using an air purifier to help maintain air quality.

4. Leaking Pipes

Cause: Leaky pipes are a common problem in homes and must be fixed immediately. Oftentimes, leaks are hidden from view, such as inside walls.

Tip: Inspect walls regularly for water stains. Check under sinks and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of leaks. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can prevent small leaks from becoming major problems. Consider installing water detection sensors in high-risk areas.

5. Roof Leaks

Cause: Roof leaks are also a way for water to seep into your home and cause mold.

Tip: If you see water stains on the ceiling, check for water damage in the attic and have your roof inspected and fixed as soon as possible. Regularly inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and clean gutters to ensure proper drainage and prevent water backup.

6. Condensation

Cause: Condensation occurs when warm moisture-laden air comes in contact with cold surfaces. Condensation can be visible on walls, windows, concrete floors, or metal pipes.

Tip: Reduce condensation by adjusting the humidity in your home. Use insulation on cold surfaces like pipes and walls to prevent condensation from forming. In bathrooms, run the exhaust fan during and after showers to remove moisture-laden air and keep the shower curtain clean.

7. Basements

Cause: Basements provide excellent mold growth conditions due to poor ventilation, cooler temperatures (that promote condensation), and frequent water leaks and flooding.

Tip: Ensure your basement is well-ventilated and use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low. Regularly inspect the basement for leaks and water damage. Consider installing a sump pump to manage water intrusion and waterproofing the basement walls and floor.