Fungus In The Attic

Attic mold is usually white green brown or black in color.

Fungus in the attic. The best way for getting rid of mold in the attic black mold and any other mold is to remove it from the surface it s growing on or remove the contaminated surface. On attic mold visible on pine tongue and groove roof sheathing near the building eaves. On wood or drywall it can look like a discoloration or stained area in large to small splotches or smaller spots and speckles. Furthermore most homeowners don t ever go up in their attic so the mold problem is allowed to grow undisturbed often for years.

Left unattended the moisture and fungal growth will eventually degrade the roof sheathing. Mold is like every other living organism it needs a water supply to survive. Condensation will provide that needed water in an otherwise dry attic environment. Attic mold left unchecked can grow and lead to structural deterioration of attic sheathing and roof structural elements.

Defects that commonly lead to the growth of mold in an attic include roof or chimney leaks inadequate insulation or improper ventilation which can cause condensation problems. Attics are one of the most common areas of mold growth in the home. For some of us there could be a nasty surprise waiting for us. Attics tend to have the perfect conditions for mold growth hot humid and an abundant food source with the wood sheathing.

Painting or sealing it will not address the problem. Mold growth in an attic comes as a consequence of excess moisture. If you re like me you probably store your christmas decorations in the attic. The mold shown in the attic photographed above was identified as aspergillus sp.

Most of us assume mold only happens in bathrooms and basements. Click photo for larger image. Also notice the condensation stains at the shingle nail more evidence of a history of attic moisture which was a factor in this mold growth. Attic mold should be approached as a structural issue.

If that s the case this is probably one of the few times you ever actually visit your attic during the year.