How Mold Can Happen Even in Dry Climates

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on baseboard.

How Mold Can Happen Even in Dry Climates

As a commercial property owner in Wallingford, WA, you are likely keenly aware of fire safety measures, but do you consider the threat of black mold? Many property owners in this area feel that the dry climate protects them against the possibility of mold growth, but that is not true. Ask any mold remediation company, and they will tell you mold spores exist everywhere, meaning there is always a possibility for growth and damage. However, there are three likely causes for concern that you should watch for.

• Weather Damage
• Undetected Leaks
• HVAC or AC Systems
  
  

Weather Damage
Even in Wallingford, WA, rain and wind damage can be a problem for businesses. While monsoons don't frequently happen, when they do, buildings can suffer a significant amount of damage, especially to the roof. However, because of the lack of frequency of these storms, many property owners don't think to inspect their roofs for damage, which means that attic spaces can have water damage that goes unnoticed. If left unabated, water damage can lead to mold development.

Undetected Leaks
Other common causes of black mold and different fungal varieties are undetected leaks. Now, if you own a warehouse, this may not be as much of a problem for you because most of the facilities plumbing is open, making leak detection a breeze. However, if you own a more conventional or traditional building, the plumbing is typically situated behind walls, making early detection nearly impossible without the help of a plumber. Therefore, as a property owner, make sure to keep an eye on water bills and usage, ensuring that nothing is out of the ordinary.

HVAC or AC Systems
Mold cleanup also occurs quite often in HVAC and AC systems. These units typically have problems with condensation buildup, which can lead to mold. Therefore, check filters routinely and stick to annual inspections.
While not every mold is toxic black mold, all varieties can exist and develop even in dry climates. Therefore, it is necessary to be vigilant about the inspections and maintenance schedules of your commercial property.