Common Signs of Mold in Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is one of the most common types of home and commercial insulation that insulation professionals work with. However, your clients may not know the signs to look for when inspecting fiberglass insulation for mold. Use your professional insulation expertise and look for these common signs of mold in fiberglass insulation to provide a thorough inspection.

Water Damage and Leaks

Mold grows in warm, moist areas around the home or commercial buildings. Because it prefers moisture-rich conditions, water damage and leaks are the leading causes of mold issues. For this reason, if a home or business is dealing with a leak, especially a long-term problem, it’s safe to assume that mold could accompany it. When repairing fiberglass insulation due to water damage, always check for accompanying mold growth.

Mildew Odor From Insulated Areas

Mold has a noticeable odor. It often smells musty and earthy. Stuffy, poorly ventilated areas often have a mildew odor thanks to mold growth.

One of the areas of the home that can most commonly experience mold issues is the attic. Due to lack of use and ventilation, this can be a frequent problem area for moisture buildup. Many homeowners insulate their attics to preserve heat and stay cool in the summer. However, this can also encourage mold growth. If you notice a strong smell of mildew coming from an attic or other parts of a house you’re working on, there’s a high likelihood that the area could have mold.

Discolored Splotches on Your Insulation or Wood

The most obvious sign of mold growth in fiberglass is the appearance of black, brown, or gray splotches in the insulation. There are many types of molds that can stem from water damage and moisture buildup in fiberglass insulation. Therefore, they could have a variety of colors and patterns. Mold is safer and easier to address in small patches. This is why regular inspections are so important for homeowners and business owners.

How To Avoid Mold in Insulation

The first thing a contractor can recommend to prevent mold growth in insulation is proper ventilation. Keeping mold-prone areas, such as attics, bathrooms, and basements, well ventilated and setting up dehumidifiers can help minimize the chances of mold growth from moisture buildup. Contractors can also recommend other types of insulation materials that are less prone to mold growth. For example, closed-cell insulation fights off mold in homes and businesses with its moisture resistance.

Look for these common signs of mold in fiberglass insulation during your future fiberglass repair or replacement jobs. It’s also important to inform your clients of these common signs so that they can stay safe and comfortable at home or at their businesses.