Top 10 Mould-Prone Areas That are Difficult to Identify

Top 10 mould-prone areas:

• Carpet:  Spills, leaks and floods allow water to soak into the carpet, its pad and often the underlayment. Moisture in the room air introduces even more water to the carpet. This creates favourable conditions for mould growth. Discard immediately if the carpet has been flooded for more than 48 hours, or if the source of the water is a sewage leak.
• Ceiling tiles: Ceiling tiles (especially under the roof) are a mould hot spot and one of the main areas of mould analysis. All sources of leaks must be eliminated before the tiles are replaced or repaired. Unless the damage is relatively minor, water-damaged ceiling tile will require replacement.
• Cavity walls: Mould loves the dark and damp interior spaces of cavity walls. To minimize moisture and its effects in cavity walls, correct any leaks and install vapour barriers during construction. Also ensure cracks on interior and exterior surfaces are filled.
• Wallboard: Wallboard located in damp locations is particularly susceptible to mould; inspect it regularly for signs of dampness and mould growth.
• Masonry surfaces: If mould is suspected, clean the area with a suitable cleaner and monitor it regularly for moisture and additional deposits.
• Electrical equipment: Electrical equipment, fixtures and cables can be a significant source for mould development. Inspect areas around electrical switches, outlets mounted on exterior walls and ceiling-mounted lighting fixtures that are directly beneath unheated spaces. Caulk and seal the spaces around electrical outlets to eliminate gaps that allow air and moisture to enter the building. If water is found to be entering electrical conduits or other electrical equipment, find and eliminate the source of it.
• Paper: When combined with moisture, paper encourages mould development and spread. To prevent this problem, ensure storage in areas where both the temperature and relative humidity are controlled. Do not stack boxes of paper on floors, particularly in the basement or on ground-floor concrete slabs.
• HVAC system drain pans: Inspect and clean the pan regularly to prevent dirt from accumulating and blocking the drain line.
• HVAC terminal units: Inspect these units at least once a year for leaks and dirt accumulation. Clean and fix any leaks.
• Ductwork: To minimize risk of mould development, ensure that air-flow rates are within range. Interior surfaces of ducts should also be inspected regularly for leaks so that you can catch problems early.