Tips for Preventing Attic Mold Growth in Toronto Homes

The attic is a neglected and forgotten part of most of our homes until the discovery of mold growth. MoldTech has helped identify this common issue and has helped hundreds of families with attic mold removal in Toronto. Most of your neighbours will experience attic mold at some point — its an incredibly prevalent problem across the GTA. Black mold removal is a safe and effective process through which we remove all parts of this living organism to prevent damage and further spread. Here’s what the MoldTech team thinks you need to know about preventing attic mold growth in Toronto. 

What Causes Mold Growth

There are several reasons that the attic has an increased risk for mold growth. It comes down to three main points: 

Ideal Environment

Mold likes to be undisturbed, have plenty to eat, and plenty of moisture. These three ingredients are all prevalent in spaces like the basement, crawlspace, and attic. Little to no foot traffic means mold can grow undisturbed for months or years before anyone notices it. Mold feeds on organic materials like paper and wood, which are widely used in building and insulation and are abundant in the attic. And lastly, moisture, the trigger for all mold infestations, can enter the attic through several means. 

Lack of Airflow

Unlike the rest of your home the attic shouldn’t be heated or cooled. Attics are like hats — in the summer, they repel heat from your home and in the winter they act as a buffer to keep heat in. These actions are supported by gentle but constant airflow through soffits, vents, and other means. Changes to your attic can restrict airflow, which in turn will cause moisture to build up. 

Roof Leaks

Your roof is a vast expanse of territory that isn’t always straightforward to assess. Storms, weather changes, and age can all affect the ability of your roof to repel moisture. At MoldTech, one of the first things we generally do when driving up to a property is take a look at the roof — it can tell us a lot about what we’ll find on the inside. 

Tips for Preventing Attic Mold

Preventing the need for black mold removal in your home doesn’t require extensive renovations or fancy equipment. Understanding your attic environment and making minor changes is all most homeowners need to do to prevent mold growth. Here are some of our most commonly recommended tips: 

• Ventilate: Improving airflow by adding new vents or ensuring that soffits are clear will have an immediate effect. 
• Monitor Humidity: Inexpensive and remote humidity monitors are commonly available and can help you understand the seasonal shifts in your attic without you needing to wriggle through a small hatch or fumble around in the dark. 
• Dry Excess Moisture: Dehumidifiers are great tools for reducing moisture buildup — just make sure they drain out of the attic. 
• Keep Out Pests: Squirrels, raccoons, rats, and other creatures can introduce moisture and unsavoury organic matter to the attic. 
• Trim Trees and Bushes: Low-hanging branches or plants growing too close to the home may block air circulation and promote moisture in the attic. 
• Address roof leaks and shingle damage promptly. 

Work with MoldTech To Identify Attic Mold Growth

Without entering the attic, is there any way to know if mold growth affects your home? Yes! MoldTech is one of the GTA’s leading professional mold inspectors. We’ll use our tools and expertise to safely assess your whole home for the risk factors or signs of mold infestation and can take any necessary physical or air samples if required. 

If we discover mold in the attic, the next step is mold remediation. Mold is a living organism, and it definitely doesn’t want to be evicted; professional mold removal is a safe process that ensures no cross-contamination or spread. The MoldTech team will help you understand why your attic has been affected and provide recommendations on preventative changes that will help you avoid repeat visits, too. 

Mold can quickly spread and will cause structural damage to your roof and insulation if left unchecked, which is why we always recommend having your attic tested sooner rather than later. To book attic mold removal in Toronto or enquire about having your attic tested, contact the MoldTech team to learn more today. 

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