Does Mold Die in the Winter?

11/30/2023 (Permalink)

If you see condensation on windows from inside, be sure to dry the area! Keeping windows closed keeps out the cold, but also shuts out ventilation.

Another cold front is on its way to Maryland and as the area gets more of those as Winter arrives, you may wonder if mold is still a concern even in extreme cold temperatures. Will snow or ice wipe it out?

Unfortunately, no. If you were trying to find a benefit of painfully cold temperatures, this certainly isn’t one.

While the cold can deactivate mold spores, warmer weather has the ability to quickly reactivate them. The spores will then begin to grow again. So watch out! The cold winter months of the Rockville, Olney and Silver Spring region does not put your home or office in the clear from mold growth.

Here are a few tips to prevent mold growth in your home or commercial property during the winter months:

• Make sure your pipes are insulated to ensure they will not crack or burst
• Check the seals on your windows and doors. Are they in good condition? This is important in keeping moisture out!
• Is there water collecting on the ground around your building? Sometimes snowmelt can create puddles, which turns into moisture seeping into your home or office. If this is the case, find a way to drain the water (ground around your building should slope away from the foundation).
• If you are indoors and see condensation on pipes, windows or walls, dry the area completely and investigate the cause. Is there a leak? Is there a reason why there is high humidity?
  • Oftentimes, there will be high humidity in a building during the winter due to lack of ventilation. Having the windows closed will keep the cold air out, but also shuts out ventilation/fresh air.

If you experience a mold issue or simply want to have your home or commercial building inspected, contact SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney or SERVPRO of Silver Spring North. We are the area’s mold damage mitigation experts, serving the area for 43+ years! 301-340-1313.