Most Types of Attic Mold Problems Arise from Roof Moisture Problems

Most mold problems in an attic arise from roof mold problems. Often, mold growths on insulation can be traced to a roof mold problem either of the current year or from a previous year. In this section, we will briefly discuss roof mold problems and how they may relate to attic mold growths. First of all, mold requires three things: warmth, moisture, and food (organic material). Roof leaks are often responsible for mold growth on the insulation of attics. Since it is warm and moist up there, once you have some organic material present such as cellulose fiber insulation or drywall, fungi just love to flourish.

Professional Mold Inspectors Can Test Levels of Mold Spore Growth in an Attic

The first thing that needs to be done after a leak has been repaired is to clean the insulation. Sometimes mold spores have soaked into the insulation and mold will continue to grow if mold spores are present. A quality mold inspector should always collect mold samples on-site where there is mold growth that can or does re-occur. 

Mold Removal Should Be Done by a Qualified, Certified Mold Cleanup Company

You really do not want to try to clean moldy insulation unless you have had training in handling hazardous materials. Generally, it is best left to a professional mold removal company since they know how to properly protect themselves from exposure with respirators and other protective equipment. You also need special ventilation when removing moldy insulation because of the possible mold spores that may be released into the air when removing this material. In addition, if you actually paint over the mold growth, mold spores can become trapped in the paint and remain mold active.

Certified Roofers Can Also Provide Inspections and Repairs to Reduce Future Damage

Professional mold inspectors also use air scrubbers to remove mold spores that may be present during mold testing. Mold growths on attic insulation can cause permanent damage to your HVAC equipment over time, so mold growths particularly need to be addressed as soon as possible with final mold clearance given by a qualified mold inspector. Some types of mold are known cancer-causing agents which means they must be handled properly by trained professionals. Thus if you see mold growths on insulation it is usually best dealt with before it becomes worse than it already is. Most roof leaks happen at the intersection of the roof and gutters or where flashing is missing or has cracked allowing water entry into the house.