Are your windows made of wood? If so, it’s very important you keep them dry, or mold could begin to develop. Mold grows where moisture comes into contact with an organic food source, such as wood.
You may be thinking that if your windows are vinyl or aluminum, then you're safe; however, you’re still not completely off the hook. If you don’t clean your windows regularly and you allow dirt, dust, or other (organic) debris to accumulate on them, you can still run into mold problems.
Excess Moisture
If your home has too much moisture in it (which often happens in the winter when you run your humidifier or in the summer when the air is naturally humid), condensation can build up on your windows. Steam from hot showers, boiling water on the stove, and opening your dishwasher after it runs can allow excess moisture into your home. In the summer in Iowa, the air is often naturally full of humidity, which we try to combat with our air conditioning systems. Sometimes your air conditioner isn’t enough, however, and you may need to reduce the humidity level even further by turning on ventilation fans or setting up a dehumidifier. Make sure all of the moisture-generating sources in your home vent to the outdoors, not into your home or the attic, where the moisture will become trapped.
Make sure you have a good ventilation system in place. You may need to have your ducts cleaned or inspected so clean air can flow optimally throughout your home. Turning on ceiling fans and opening windows can also improve ventilation and reduce moisture. According to the EPA, your indoor humidity level should be kept between 30-60%. If higher than this, it's more likely that mold will grow in your home.
Debris
If organic matter, such as pollen, insects, dust, dog hair, etc., blows in and lands on any part of your window and mixes with moisture, mold can begin to grow. Therefore, regardless of what type of windows you have, it’s very important to keep your windows clean. Properly maintaining your windows will make them to last longer and improve the overall look of your home.
Prevent Moisture, Prevent Mold
The bottom line is that if you prevent moisture, you’ll prevent mold growth. This may be easier said than done, but the only way to keep the mold from coming back is to eliminate the source.
In addition to your windows, mold can also grow in other areas of your home, such as on the caulking around your shower or bathtub, beneath wallpaper, in your attic insulation, or on your carpet.
If you have questions about how to reduce moisture in your home, contact Hedrick Construction. Too much moisture inside your home can also damage your attic and roof. Make sure you have the right components in place to protect your home, including adequate insulation, good ventilation, and a leak-free roof.
Window Replacement in Huxley, Ankeny, and Ames
Windows aren’t everlasting; they will eventually need to be replaced. If your windows no longer open and close properly or have significant air leaks, it’s time to replace them. If your windows aren't operating efficiently anymore, you could be wasting a lot of money on energy bills throughout the year while your home remains less comfortable than it coule be. If your windows are rotting or moldy, they could pose health risks to you and your family. Contact Hedrick Construction in Ames for window replacement services in Huxley, Ankeny, elsewhere around Story County.
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