Mold on windows is an issue that every Canadian homeowner may have to deal with at some point. Due to the extreme amount of moisture in the air from drastic weather changes, mold is a common issue and needs to be dealt with before it becomes a serious problem.
The following article will advise you on ways to safely remove mold. If you need more info on standard window sizes, check out our website.
Mold on Windows: Facts & Safe Removal Tips
What Causes Mold?
A mold is a form of fungus that forms and grows in damp and dark areas. It also thrives in areas that are poorly ventilated. Mold grows in those rooms in which there is a high amount of moisture such as basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Also, it can form walls, carpets, rugs, furniture, and other materials which have been exposed to prolonged moisture.
Mold on windows and other items can pose serious health issues for those who suffer from respiratory illnesses such as emphysema, COPD, and asthma. As well, certain types of mold may even be toxic due to the fact that they produce mycotoxins. These can cause even more health concerns so it is crucial to remove any mold issues before they become a threat.
How to Mold on Windows Forms
As mold grows in areas that are exposed to high levels of humidity, windows can play a crucial role in preventing growth. Windows are prone to condensation as they happen to be an area where the cold outside air meets the warmer air inside your home. If this condensation remains on your windows for an extended period of time, it can result in mold growth.
In addition, mold can also form on the walls that surround windows as walls are generally made of at least partial wooden components. This makes this area a prime target for the formation and growth of mold. To prevent mold on windows and inside the walls, it is imperative that your windows are properly sealed when they are initially installed.
How to Remove Mold on Windows
Cleaning mold from windows can be tricky, as if not removed properly, it will only resurface and spread. If you notice that you a great deal of mold growth in various areas of your home, you should consult a professional to determine the exact source and remove the growth before it spreads. You should call a professional to remove the mold if it is more than one square meter in growth.
How to Remove Mold in Localized Areas
- Use warm water and unscented dish detergent to thoroughly clean the areas. For drywall, use baking soda.
- Cleanse the infected area with fermented white vinegar. You can get this at any local supermarket. Allow the vinegar to sit for 20 minutes at least. Then gently wipe it away with warm water and a sponge.
- Use a 3% solution (or tsp mixed with 2 cups of water) of Tea Tree Oil in a spray bottle. Shake before each use.
NB: Wear safety glasses/goggles, rubber gloves, and a dust mask as well as long sleeves/pants to protect your skin. Properly clean and/or dispose of any used items when you are finished. Bleach should never be used to clean mold on windows or anywhere as it is completely ineffective (due to high pH levels). As such, it will simply bleach the mold, which gives the appearance that it has been removed. However, it does not kill the mold so it is not a productive means of removing mold. It is imperative that you physically remove all mold as opposed to simply killing it to stop regrowth.
*For more helpful information on mold removal, check out videos and other details on the Health Canada Website.
Contact WindowTech Windows and Doors if you have any more questions regarding how to remove and dispose of mold on windows. If needed, we can meet you in your home to assess the situation to determine whether it is something you can remedy simply by cleaning. If not, you might want to consider seeking professional removal and/or window replacement. Call us straight away once you have spotted mold on your windows.
