Where Can Mold Hide in a Commercial Building?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Stay on top of potential mold growth by inspecting those hidden areas frequently.

Since mold thrives in a dark, moist environment, you may not spot it by walking through your building in Aurora, IL. That's why it's important to conduct a periodic inspection of those hidden places where mold growth is common.
Where Does Mold Grow in Commercial Buildings?

Ductwork - Your building's ductwork contains a lot of moisture from the cooling air that is blown into the office. Check the lining of the ducts for mold growth and damage. If the duct lining contains cracks, water can seep through. This creates the right conditions for mold. Dirty linings are also an invitation for mold. Any abnormalities in the duct lining should be inspected and replaced by a professional.

HVAC drain pans - Make sure the pans are draining properly so that water doesn't pool around the unit.
Carpet - Dirt gets trapped in carpet fibers, and when that is combined with liquid from spills, the resulting water damage is an invitation for mold. If the building has a high humidity level, this increases the risk. Thoroughly dry any wet carpet quickly by sopping up the water and running a fan until the carpet is dried completely. Turning on the air conditioning and dehumidifier will quicken the drying process. If the spill area is larger than 10 square feet, it's time to call a professional.

Ceiling tiles - All ceiling tiles should be inspected for water stains, which could indicate a roof leak. The tiles around the HVAC vents are most vulnerable to moisture and dirt, so check them more frequently.

In addition to setting up a routine maintenance program to look for mold, it's important to schedule an annual inspection with mold remediation specialists. They are trained to know what to look for, and they will give you the best assessment for safely handling any mold they find.

Stay on top of potential mold growth by inspecting those hidden areas frequently.