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Approximately 7 in 10 houses have a mold problem. Mold can find ways to sneak into your property without getting noticed, leading to severe issues. Mold can dramatically weaken your structure. It is also a leading cause of respiratory illnesses in the household. Every year, Americans spend over $3.7 billion treating respiratory symptoms caused by indoor mold. 

But how does mold find a way into our homes? 

Most people assume that the bathroom is the main source of risks. Mold spores develop in a humid environment, which is why bathrooms tend to have frequent mold outbreaks around the shower or tub area. It's typically related to your ventilation system. Indeed, you can't get rid of humidity in the bathroom due to the nature of the room. However, you can provide solutions that will actively bring moisture levels down. Upgrading your bathroom fan and ventilation can work wonders in old homes. It can be a good idea to open the window after using the bathroom, so you can create an exit route. Some homeowners also use plants to absorb excess humidity in the bathroom. But how about mold that doesn't appear in the bathroom? Where should you look for it?

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Check your facade

Could mold spores find a way through your walls? Grime, moss, and dirt can stick to your external walls, gradually affecting the structure. Experts recommend removing buildup regularly from your facade to prevent risks of fissure or permeability developing. It's a good idea to arrange for clean walls with professional pressure washing services, which can help protect the walls in the long term. 

When your external walls are damaged, even if it only is through minor cracks in the paint or the upper layer, moisture can find a way in, and mold spores can appear inside your walls. 

The driveway

Most people don't realize that mold spores can attach themselves to any surface. For instance, the old parking area in front of the property could have long been developing wear and tear and damage from constant exposure to the elements. You may spot moss and even some mold patches on the surface of the pavement. Believe it or not, mold spores can glue themselves to the soles of your shoes, and that's how they could find a way inside your property. So, you may want to consider resurfacing the driveway before it starts showing serious signs of disrepair. 

Unfinished or lacking insulation

Typically, unfinished areas, such as the basement or the garage, lack ventilation and regulation systems, making them more likely to experience high humidity levels. Another area inside your home that may not have sufficient insulation is the under-roof loft. Mold can grow in these spots and travel inside your home. 

What are the signs of insulation problems?

Typically, the surface will reflect the external temperatures for the under-roof area. So, if the ceiling under your roof in winter feels cold to the touch, the insulation isn't doing a good job. Therefore, humidity levels are more likely to be out of control! 

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Don't let your home be one of the 70% of properties in the U.S. that struggles with mold problems. Identifying the main problem areas can help you gradually regulate humidity levels and remove mold spores.