Can Mold Grow in Dry Climates?
6/1/2020 (Permalink)
Mold is a natural spore that breaks down dead trees and leaves. Most people know that black mold thrives in moist environments. That is why mold is commonly found in wet, rainy areas.
You might think that you don’t have to worry about mold growth. Even though you may not deal with huge rainstorms or hurricanes, you still could end up with excess mold in your commercial building. That is because mold can develop in indoor wet areas such as:
- Air conditioners
- Hot water heaters
- Leaky sinks
- Showers
Don't Get Caught Unprepared
People in wet climates are accustomed to looking for black mold. Yet those in dry environments do not usually regularly check their roofs, air conditioning units, or windows for mold spores. They may not even think about mold until it becomes a visible problem with a nasty odor. By that time, you will probably need extensive mold cleanup in your building.
So even if you live in a dry city, you keep an eye out for puddles or leaks and take care of them as soon as possible. Don’t forget to look for ponds of water on the roof.
Similarly, you need to make sure that the roof has proper shingles and shields. Poor installation of these features can cause leaks and subsequent mold growth.
Act Quickly
Warm climates are especially susceptible to monsoons and humidity. This combination creates a breeding ground for mold, especially if your building develops a leak. Mold can start to grow just one to two days after the leak develops.
Since mold is found naturally in the environment, it is impossible to eliminate these spores from your Athens, GA building entirely. However, you do want to limit the amount of black mold in your commercial space. Professional mold remediation specialists can help your building get back to its normal mold level.