White Mold Growing In Attic

Mold needs 3 things to grow.

White mold growing in attic.

Attic mold left unchecked can grow and lead to structural deterioration of attic sheathing and roof structural elements. The photo at page top shows white attic mold on the roof sheathing and rafters and some brown or black mold on the attic side of ceiling drywall where we pulled back insulation. The vast majority of attic mold is caused by humidity which is why white mold growth is common here. In the vast majority of cases the mold growth is caused by condensation.

This is why it s less common to see mold growth on base trim after a flooding event. Related to 3 above this practice can pump warm moist air into the attic where it can be trapped and begin the cycle of mold growth. The mold itself may have a cottony texture but can also be velvety leathery or. The most common type of remediation is chemical based using powerful cleaning agents to kill the mold and then covering the attic with powerful antifungal sealers that will prevent mold from growing back.

There s an underlying moisture issue that needs to be resolved because mold requires moisture to grow and spread. Chemical based mold remediation is highly effective and usually costs the least so it s the most popular option. Mold usually causes a musty odor and may cause staining that may be black brown gray white yellow or green. In the attic photograph at left we show a mix of green gray and white attic mold.

What does attic mold look like. Dryer vents plumbing vents kitchen or bathroom fans vented into the attic. Look for the first signs of mold around ac vents in the ducts and in the drip pans. When looking for attic mold trace both leak areas and areas of poor ventilation in the attic.

This occurs when the temperature of the sheathing drops below the dew point creating a thin layer of moisture on the substrate. Mold growth on attic roof sheathing is a common issue in cool climates such as the pacific northwest. Condenser coils pull moisture out of the air and into drip pans and if these become clogged they create the perfect environment for mold to grow. Mold on attic sheathing.

Attic sheathing and framing.