How Common Is Mold in Buildings and How Does It Get into a Building?
Mold is very common in buildings and homes. A 2017 study discovered that there is an average of about 14 instances of mold in every public building. Another 2012 study involving 31 European countries showed that mold can be found in 1 in 6 homes. The study also showed that the prevalence of mold usually depends on the regional climate.
Studies show that outdoor molds release tiny spores that float through the air. These spores can get into your home through:
- Windows
- Heating and air conditioning vents
- Clothing and shoes
- Pets
- Doors
When a mold spore gets into your home, they can grow in the appropriate condition. Mold spores grow in regions that contain moisture, such as:
- Around windows
- In sinks, bathtubs, and showers
- Near leaky pipes
- In basements, crawl spaces, and attics
Mold can get attached to different types of materials, such as:
- Carpet
- Paper
- Wood
- Dust
- Paint
- Ceiling tiles
- Wallpaper
- Insulation
- Fabrics