Imagine an itty-bitty organism so small that 35 of them could fit comfortably across the width of a single human hair.
Or so small that 10,000 of them would form a line just an inch long.
When you think in sizes like that, it becomes pretty clear how a drop of dew could feed a “tribe” of these little guys for a long while.
But even that’s thinking a bit too big: Individual mold spores can grow even if no visible water is present.
That’s what humidity is: Water in the form of vapors, hanging in the air. Dew and condensation (water droplets) form when the air can no longer “hold” the amount of water in vapor form, so the vapor becomes visible water droplets.
Saving the full-blown science class for later, it’s worth knowing that temperature has everything to do with when and where these vapors become water droplets.
And that in Florida, the air alone holds enough moisture—even without water droplets being present—to spur or support mold growth.
But if mold spores are so incredibly small, does it really matter? Great question, and yes, it does.
If you were to go away on vacation, and had left your home not properly closed up, you might return home to what we call a “mold bloom,” or “mildew bloom.”
There can be enough mold growth or mildew growth in your home that it covers the walls, or ceiling, or various furniture.
A bit different than some of the much more serious mold growth that can happen when more water is available for its growth, but still a problem that you’ll notice.
You’d literally be able to see the white or green fuzz, it might affect your eyes or your breathing, and it certainly wouldn’t feel like “home” for a while.
If that’s you, please call us at Mold Solutions. It’s an easy but important fix, and one you’ll want to get right, because that surface mildew or mold could be—but isn’t always—part of a deeper problem.
How Humidity Alone Can Hold Enough Water to Fuel Mold Growth
Mold thrives in environments with relative humidity levels of above 60%.
Here in Florida, the average humidity often exceeds this threshold, sometimes creating an ideal breeding ground for mold spores.
While humidity alone isn’t the only factor—mold also needs organic material, warmth, and semi stagnant air—high humidity levels can significantly increase the likelihood of mold growth.
Mold spores are everywhere in the air around us and can settle on various surfaces. When humidity levels rise, moisture can accumulate on surfaces, leading to condensation. This moisture, combined with organic materials (like wood, drywall, or fabric), creates a near perfect environment for mold to grow.
Preventing Mold Growth in Humid Florida Homes
Thankfully, there are easy or inexpensive ways to deal with and prevent mold from growing despite the high humidity.
- Using Dehumidifiers to help keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This is particularly important in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and basements.
- Ventilate Well with exhaust fans in kitchens (when cooking) and bathrooms (during and after showering) to reduce humidity levels.
- Air Conditioning not only cools your home but it reduces humidity levels—it’s the biggest and most important dehumidifier your home has.
In ‘Snow Bird’ Homes
If you own a vacation home in Florida that’s not occupied for part of the year, these precautions can prevent mold growth while you’re away:
- Maintain Climate Control: Set your thermostat to a temperature that discourages humidity buildup. Consider using a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust the temperature remotely.
- Regular Inspections: Schedule routine inspections of your property to check for signs of moisture or mold. Engaging a local property management service can help with this.
- Drain and Clean Gutters: Ensure that gutters are clear and draining properly to prevent water from pooling around your home.
- Consider Mold-resistant Products: Use mold-resistant paints and materials in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
In Summary, We Can Help Deal With Humidity Problems!
If it isn’t thought with and managed well, humidity alone can cause mold or mildew growth.
Preventing it is often pretty easy and is mostly a matter or knowing it can happen, and keeping your home well-ventilated and below 60% relative humidity.
If you’re just learning of this now and are already facing a mold problem, please give us a call or fill out the Free Environmental Consultation form below.
For professional assistance with mold concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Mold Solutions. Your health and home deserve the best.
