Mold grows and multiplies rapidly in an environment with constant moisture and other favorable conditions that sustain its growth. The carpet is one of the common areas in a home that can be at high risk for mold invasion. Area rugs and wall-to-wall carpeting provide a perfect breeding ground for mold if spores land on wet or damp spots. Carpeting that is usually moist or damp is more likely to be infested by mold.
Just because there are no visible signs of mold on your carpet, it does not mean that it is not there. Visible mold on the surface of your carpet is considered a severe case of mold growth and the only way to eliminate this problem is to have it replaced with a new one. In this article, we will be looking at what causes mold to grow on carpets and how you can prevent mold on carpeting.
Causes of Mold on Carpets
- Unchecked Water Damage
Water can cause extensive damage to a home, as it affects the look, smell and structural integrity of the building, especially if it is made of wood. Carpets are more vulnerable because they can absorb excess water that streams from your walls or underneath the floor. It is sometimes difficult to notice the problem until you smell a musty odor or the mold eventually becomes visible.
- High Levels of Humidity
Mold growth occurs in a wet room or an area in your home that receives constant moisture. A high level of humidity means that the moisture content in the air is also high. The air may feel thick or heavy during hot and humid days and condensation occurs when warm humid air encounters a surface that is cooler than the surrounding air. The carpet can absorb moisture for a very long time, creating a damp environment that is vital for mold growth.
- Accidental Liquid Spills
There are times when you accidentally spill water or other drinks on your carpet and it gets soaked in the fibers before you get a chance to clean up. While some may take this seriously by airing out their carpets to dry, other homeowners just ignore the problem even after several liquid spills on the carpet. Mold may start to grow in colonies after a few days of exposure to a moist and damp environment. It usually grows and multiplies rapidly until steps are taken to effectively deal with the problem by eliminating the source of moisture.
- Poor Ventilation
Mold is more likely to grow on your carpet if your home is poorly ventilated. This mostly happens during winter where many people keep their doors and windows shut for a very long time. A poorly ventilated home allows mold spores to settle on various surfaces including the carpet, where they can start to grow within a few hours. Things may get worse if your home has a water issue since it creates excess moisture that facilitates the growth of molds.
- Poor Home Maintenance
Dusty surfaces, poor window seals, leaky roofs, and plumbing issues can cause mold to grow on carpets, as they create a conducive environment that favors their existence. If you do not vacuum your floors and carpet regularly, the accumulated dust combines with moisture absorbed from the air, allowing mold to grow and spread quickly over the carpet. Poor home maintenance provides the perfect conditions for mold spores to take root and invade your entire home.
How to Prevent Mold on Carpeting
The best way to prevent mold from growing on your carpet is to eliminate the conditions that favor its existence. If you live in a cold region, it is advisable to control the level of humidity using dehumidifiers or HVAC systems to prevent mold growth. Ensure your carpets are clean using a good quality vacuum. This is something that you might have to do more often if you have visitors and are experiencing heavy traffic. Check for any signs of water leakages on the roof, walls or plumbing and keep your home well ventilated.
If mold has already taken hold in your entire home, it is best to call in professionals, as they are highly skilled to deal with mold problems. However, you can always prevent the growth of mold on the carpet by cutting off any sources of moisture or environmental conditions that favor its existence. A clean home that is well ventilated not only helps get rid of mold, but also promotes good health and better living.