Causes of Attic Mold

Like basements, attics are a common area in homes for mold to grow. Attics tends to have the perfect conditions (humid, hot, wood sheathing which makes an abundant food source) for mold growth. Even more, many homeowners don't tend to go up into the attic that often, therefore, the mold issue often goes undisturbed, even for years. Below are five causes of attic mold.

1. Flawed Insulation
   You should entrust your attic insulation project to a reliable professional who has a working understanding of this type of job. If you have the wrong combination of insulation types or if it's installed improperly, the moisture that has risen from the lower levels of your home will become trapped. With nowhere to escape, this moisture will create the ideal environment for mold to grow and thrive.

2. Leaky Roof
   A leaky roof is often the source of moisture in your attic and a certain signal of this is discoloration and mold growth on:

• Insulation
• Rafters
• Sheathing

Weakened or improper flashing around chimneys, valleys and skylights can allow water to penetrate into your home's attic, which will essentially create mold.

3. Lack of Efficient Sealing Around your Whole House Fan
   Because you install a whole house fan in your ceiling, the area around your fan should be sealed properly to ensure maximum efficiency and to prevent the accumulation of warm air in your attic.

4. Dryer Vents Discharge Into Your Attic
   Some homes have dryer vents that were installed in a manner where they discharge into the attic. Typically, this isn't a great idea, since the dryer releases all the hot air and moisture into your attic, leading to moisture issues quickly and promotes attic mold growth.

5. Improper Ventilation
   Improper attic ventilation is a common cause of mold in the attic. Certain things should never exhaust into your attic, such as:

• Dryer vents
• Exhaust fans
• Stove vents

All three vents contain a lot of moisture and will lead to mold growth. You should ensure all your exhaust vents are venting through the roof.

One way to improve attic ventilation is by installing an attic fan. Attic fans today use very little energy and are integrated with the roof shingles. Because your attic acts like the "buffer zone" between your home's interior and the outdoors, it's essential to regulate this zone's temperature to maintain a consistent temperature in this living area.

Identifying the source of mold in your attic is critical and once you do, you can eliminate the mold and ensure it doesn't spread to other areas of your home or grow back.

Check out our selection of attic fans, including solar power attic fans, like this 40 watt solar Attic Fan by Quiet Cool, and smart energy saving attic fans, like this Smart Energy Saver Attic Roof Fan by Quiet Cool.

Questions about attic fans? Give us a call at 1-888-229-5757.