At BioClean CT, we enjoy sharing the knowledge we've gained from providing mold inspections and mold remediation for more than 30 years. We want property owners and property managers to know mold growth in commercial buildings is preventable.

Mold can grow on just about any moist surface. In commercial buildings, mold growth is frequently connected to:

• Plumbing leaks,
• Leaks in the building's envelope, or
• the HVAC system

Foundation leaks can cause mold to thrive in the building materials and furnishings on the building's lowest level. A roof leak can result in mold growing in places that aren't immediately visible like in insulation and behind drywall. An HVAC system can become contaminated with mold, which threatens the entire building's air quality.

Signs of Mold

• A musty odor
• A leak
• Employee complaints about upper respiratory symptoms they only have at work
• A surface has been wet for more than 48 hours
• Discovery of moisture damage to any building material

4 Ways to Prevent Mold in Commercial Buildings

• Always repair plumbing leaks and the building's structural leaks as soon as they're discovered. When a surface becomes moist, it only takes 24 to 48 hours for a mold colony to begin growing according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
• Perform regular building inspections with an emphasis on the HVAC system, the roof, and plumbing. In commercial buildings, leaks can get overlooked and mold has the opportunity to grow unchecked in areas that aren't used often. Poorly maintained HVAC drip pans welcome mold growth. It's important that HVAC drip pans are kept clean and draining properly. 
• Keep the relative humidity level lower than 60 percent. An inexpensive humidity meter, more formerly known as a hygrometer, is helpful to monitor indoor humidity. Even without a hygrometer, you can tell the building's humidity is too high if condensation is forming on windows. 
• Direct water away from the foundation. Landscaping and gutters should send water away from the building to prevent foundation leaks. Gutters require regular cleaning to function properly. 

With BioClean CT, you get the benefit of our decades of experience handling mold inspections and mold remediation. Contact us to address concerns surrounding mold in your commercial building.