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What Causes Mold To Grow Indoors?

If you live in the Pacific Northwest, you know how often damp weather and rainfall can creep into every part of your home. Unfortunately, that same climate that keeps our landscapes green also makes mold a common household problem. Mold thrives wherever there’s lingering moisture and limited ventilation, and once it starts growing it can spread quickly on wood, drywall, or insulation. Understanding the causes of indoor mold is the first step to keeping your home healthy and protected.

Mold in kitchen

Where Does Mold Come From?

Mold spores exist naturally in the air, but they only become a problem when they find the right conditions to grow: moisture, organic material, and time. A small, temporary buildup of mold, such as a bit of residue on bathroom grout between cleanings, is common. But when mold keeps coming back or spreads into other parts of your home, it’s a sign of an underlying moisture issue that needs professional attention. Without identifying and fixing that source, cleaning alone won’t solve the problem.

Why Do Basements and Crawl Spaces Get Moldy?

Basements and crawl spaces are especially vulnerable because they’re often cool, dark, and damp. Groundwater seepage, poor drainage, and limited airflow can cause moisture to linger. Over time, these conditions can allow mold to grow on wooden beams, insulation, or vapor barriers. Regular inspections and water mitigation can help keep these areas dry and prevent mold from taking hold.

What Causes Mold in Attics?

Attic mold often means ventilation or insulation problems. Warm, moist air from the living space can rise and become trapped, especially during cold weather. Roof leaks, condensation on the underside of sheathing, or improperly vented bathroom fans can also add excess moisture. Since attics are out of sight, mold can spread across rafters and sheathing long before it’s noticed. If you suspect an issue, schedule mold inspection and testing to determine the extent and cause.

Why Is My Bathroom Moldy?

Bathrooms experience high humidity from showers, baths, and sinks, which creates perfect mold-growing conditions. Without adequate ventilation, that moisture can linger on ceilings, tile grout, and even drywall. Using an exhaust fan during and after showers, wiping down wet surfaces, and repairing plumbing leaks can all help minimize bathroom mold.

What Causes Mold Around Windows and Doors?

Condensation is the main culprit here. When warm indoor air meets cold glass or poorly sealed frames, moisture collects along the edges, especially during winter. Over time, this recurring dampness encourages mold to grow on caulking, trim, or sills. Upgrading insulation, sealing gaps, and maintaining proper indoor humidity can help keep these problem spots dry.

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Schedule Mold Remediation Services with Mold Eaters

Indoor mold growth is almost always a symptom of an underlying moisture problem. Whether it’s a leaky roof, plumbing issue, or lack of ventilation, professional assessment and treatment are key to lasting results.

MoldEaters provides trusted mold remediation and moisture control solutions throughout Washington and Oregon. Our IICRC Certified Technicians combine years of experience with industry-proven methods to remove mold safely and address the conditions that cause it. From attic ventilation improvements to crawl space drying and water mitigation, we restore health, comfort, and peace of mind to every home we serve.

Contact MoldEaters today to schedule professional mold inspection, removal, and moisture control services in Oregon or Washington.

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Very professional crew, arrived on time, explained the plan of action and cleaned up when done. Very good customer service and good to work with, highly recommend!

Chris M.

Excellent customer service from the estimate to the end of the job! Communication and quality of the job was a 5+, when they came to do the work in our attic, they worked efficiently, neat, and answered all the questions we had. Can't recommend them enough!

Cathy H.

MoldEaters was quick, efficient, and provided great service at a fair price. I had a mildew issue in an ADU that was part of a home purchase and they added a new vent, cleaned up the mildew and I am set now. Thanks again to Kris and the folks over there.

Jesse M.