Avoid the fall mold trap: An expert shares what you need to know in September to protect your home

As fall arrives, September becomes a prime time for mold to grow due to changing temperatures and humidity levels that create ideal conditions for mold spores. Michael Rubino, a mold and air quality expert, explains how fall triggers a surge in mold spores and provides guidance on preventing mold growth in homes.

Fall brings excess moisture and decaying organic matter as leaves fall and vegetation dies back, leading to increased outdoor mold spore levels. These spores can enter homes through open doors or windows, or be tracked inside on shoes, clothing, or pets. Additionally, frequent storms during hurricane season and heavy rains can cause flooding, damage roofs, foundations, windows, and doors, providing hidden entry points for water and moisture accumulation.

Rubino also highlights that other seasonal triggers, such as clogged gutters from decomposing leaves, can cause rainwater to pool near roofs and foundations, creating breeding grounds for mold. Sealed indoor environments during cold weather further exacerbate the issue by trapping humidity and promoting mold growth on cold surfaces.

However, Rubino emphasizes that a home cannot be 100% free of mold and instead focuses on reducing unnecessary accumulation indoors and controlling moisture levels to prevent mold spores from growing.

Key areas for mold inspection include under sinks, around plumbing supply lines, behind major appliances, inside dark cabinets and closets, near chimneys, fireplaces, skylights, and recessed lighting, in attics, basements, and crawlspaces, in garages and storage zones, on windowsills, window frames, and door frames, on mattresses, upholstered furniture, and carpet padding, within HVAC systems, and around bathroom exhaust fan housing.

A dehumidifier, such as the 20 Cube 20 Pint model, can help maintain indoor humidity levels between 35-50% to prevent mold growth. Additionally, checking the toilet tank for mold can serve as an early warning system, indicating the presence of mold spores elsewhere in the home.