What are the Most Common Causes of Window Mold?
Are you worried about the regular occurrence of mold on your windows? Is it difficult for you to get rid of the window mold? The occurrence of mold on windows is very common, so it is important to know why and how to resolve. The two most common causes of window mold are the expected condensation (humidity) problem. The other is a more significant problem with the exterior of the home around the window.
The Battle with Condensation
When there is humidity in the air despite the cold weather, and AC doesn’t run for some time, and there’s simply no way to get rid of internally developed humidity, then condensation occurs. Condensation is the leading cause of window mold. Since mold loves the condensed, humid, and wet environment, they start gathering on the outlines of windows where moisture settles more than other places.
The other common cause of window mold is inadequate flashing and caulk around the window exterior and siding. We have seen newly constructed commercial properties and homes with extensive window mold problems due to the installers not properly flashing and caulking during installation. Most of the time, when this is the problem we see mold on the wall underneath the window versus inside of the window casing like it is with condensation. We recommend all newly constructed properties or properties with a recent window or siding installation to be inspected by a third-party contractor after installation is complete to ensure correct installation procedures were followed.
3 Steps To RESOLVE Window Condensation
1. Wipe Off and Clean Your Windows
Mold flourishes at night because of the darkness and nocturnal condensation. Wipe the windows down every morning to prevent window mold growth. However, if you don’t have time to clean it every day, you may even hire Window Washers. The procedure usually involves a fast spritz of chemicals over your windows which is frequently followed by a squeegee wash. By doing so, you eliminate the water required for their development. Dust particles, as well as other food sources, are eliminated.
2. Raise the Surface Temperature of the Window.
The window and wall surfaces get warmed by the natural air convection currents when the external temperature is lower than the internal. As a result of this, the room air accumulates on the window surfaces which cause the air that is present on the windows to cool down; thereby making it denser and causing condensation. When condensation increases, humidity in the air also increases mold more than anything. To avoid this, you can raise the room temperature that in turn increases the surface temperature of the air at the window surfaces that helps in reducing condensation. If you’re not sure about how this is done, make use of a window cleaning expert’s help to get the work done. If you’re looking for one, check the likes of Professional Window Cleaning (www.getmywindowsclean.com/services/window-cleaning/thornton/).
3. Reduce Air Humidity in the Room
To control windows mold growth, you have to put a limit to the humidity in the air. For that, the dehumidification equipment works best. This equipment filters out the moisture in the air and brings in the deeply dehumidified air. Since moisture is the key reason for mold growth, the less it is in the air the better. We advise you to get a dehumidifier with an auto pump so that it could drain and you don’t have to worry about emptying it daily.
To RESOLVE Significant Window Mold Problems
- Repair exterior flashing, caulk or siding by a local reputable contractor?
- Have mold removed by a certified mold professional who will follow EPA guidelines.
- Clean your ducts and air handler thoroughly by a professional vent cleaning company if the mold was located in close proximity to air vents.