Most homeowners think of mold as a problem in basements, laundry rooms, or crawl spaces only. But knowing what really causes mold on windows doesn’t limit its growth to these areas of your home. Actually, mold can grow anywhere there is an accumulation of excess moisture and the proper temperature. It just so happens that the ideal temperature for human comfort – between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, is also optimum for the growth of mold and fungi.
Is Mold on Windows Dangerous?
Moldy windows can have harmful effects on your family’s health. Upper respiratory symptoms along with skin and eye irritation are possible. Identifying, removing, and preventing mold around windows is crucial to your family health. In some homes, replacing the windows and frames may be the best mold prevention solution.
How To Identify Mold on Window Frames & Glass
Favorable conditions for mold are often found on or around windows. The problem for the homeowner is that mold around windows is not always visible to the eye. The joints where the glass meets the window frame, especially near the bottom is a common breeding ground for mold around window sill. Sometimes mold can be invisible on the glass, matching the color of the window itself. Other times, mold can be identified as a green, white, yellow, pink, or black – depending on the specific mold spores.
Getting Rid of Mold on Windows
The CDC cites the mold around window sill as an increasing concern, with serious possible side effects such as memory loss and lack of energy. Follow these general guidelines to remove mold from windows:
- Dampen the mold by spraying with water from a spray bottle to prevent mold spores from circulating in the air.
- It is recommended to wear gloves, an air mask, and safety goggles for personal protection.
- With a non-abrasive brush, scrub the mold around windows with a solution of 1/4 to 1/2 cup bleach added to a gallon of water.
- Wipe away all loosened mold with paper towels and discard in a sealed plastic bag.
If you prefer not to use bleach when cleaning your window frame and other surfaces, alternate methods are available. Soaking the molded areas with white vinegar followed by a good scrubbing with baking soda – or use a diluted fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Replacing your windows is always an option for ensuring the complete removal of mold on windows.
Mold Prevention Tips
Regularly clean your bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom windows to remove dust and moisture. Take steps to prevent condensation from forming on windows and other places in the home that sweat. Ventilate rooms where moisture is present, such as the bathrooms, laundry room, and kitchen. You may also consider a dehumidifier if air moisture is a problem in your home.
When to Consider New Windows
Double pane windows with moisture on the inside is an indication of the seals deteriorating and provide a breeding ground for mold. If your casement windows or wood framed windows are difficult to open and shut, this can indicate water infiltration within the frame causing swelling or inlets for debris. All these problems can be a sign of moisture infiltration, which can lead to hidden mold growth.
Takeaways:
- Consistent sinus and respiratory problems may indicate mold within the home
- Perform mold inspections by examining the joints, casing, and window sills for signs of mold growth
- Regularly clean your bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom windows
- Follow mold removal guidelines carefully to prevent mold from going airborne
- Control mold growth by removing moisture in your house and on interior surfaces
- Replace windows that may have mold growing in unseen crevices
Contact RWC, a family owned and operated window and door replacement company located in West Caldwell, New Jersey with over 50 years of experience in window replacements to solve your home’s window mold problems. We don’t just specialize in removing mold from windows. We’d love to use our knowledge of window care, safety, design, and installation to help you get the best windows for your home. We take pride in quality service and offer a wide range of solutions for window replacement in New Jersey to fit your budget.
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