NASHVILLE Blog

Mold Growth and Crawl Spaces in Tennessee

Mold growth is a common problem in many homes, but it can be particularly prevalent in Middle Tennessee due to the high humidity levels and prevalence of crawl spaces. According to a recent report by the American Lung Association, Nashville has some of the highest levels of naturally occurring outdoor molds in the country. When combined with the humid conditions in the region, this can create an ideal environment for mold growth inside homes.

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, damp environments. When mold spores are present in the air, they can attach to surfaces inside a home and begin to grow. This can lead to a variety of health problems for residents, particularly those with allergies or respiratory issues.

One of the primary dangers of mold growth in the home is the potential for respiratory problems. When mold spores are inhaled, they can irritate the lungs and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions like asthma. This can lead to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, mold exposure can even lead to the development of mold-induced asthma, a chronic condition that can require ongoing medical treatment. 

In addition to respiratory problems, mold exposure can also cause a variety of other health issues. For example, exposure to certain types of mold can cause skin irritation, headaches, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure to mold can even lead to more serious health problems like neurological damage and even cancer.

In Middle Tennessee, where high humidity levels and crawl spaces are common, homeowners must be particularly vigilant in preventing mold growth. Crawl spaces are particularly susceptible to mold growth, as they are often damp and poorly ventilated. When moisture is present in these spaces, mold can grow quickly and spread throughout the home.

To prevent mold growth in crawl spaces, homeowners should ensure that these areas are properly ventilated and that any moisture problems are addressed promptly. This may involve installing vents or fans to increase airflow or sealing any gaps or cracks that allow moisture to enter the space.

Another important step in preventing mold growth in the home is to maintain proper humidity levels. In Middle Tennessee, where humidity levels can be particularly high, it's important to use dehumidifiers or air conditioning to keep indoor humidity levels below 60 percent. This can help to prevent moisture buildup and discourage mold growth.

Tennessee codes allow for two paths for insulating your crawl space. The first is a vented space. If there is airflow in the crawl space then R-19 insulation is required underneath the subfloor as well as a vapor barrier laid on the ground. Many professionals do not like this cheaper route in the greater Nashville area because of our humidity. Fiberglass insulation does not cause mold, but it will hold moisture and transfer it to the wood which can cause issues. The alternative is a "conditioned" crawl space. To acheive this, encapsulation must be done. Thick plastic will wrap the walls, piers and floor in the crawl space with blocked or no vents. There are serveral ways to insulate the block walls in this method including foam board or spray foam. A dehumidifier is needed for this route to manage the humidity in this space s well. 

Finally, homeowners should be vigilant in addressing any signs of mold growth as soon as they are discovered. This may include visible mold growth on walls or ceilings, a musty odor in the home, or unexplained respiratory symptoms. When mold growth is discovered, it's important to address the problem promptly to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.

In conclusion, mold growth is a serious problem for homeowners in Middle Tennessee, where high humidity levels and crawl spaces create ideal conditions for mold growth. To protect themselves and their families, homeowners should take steps to prevent mold growth in the home, including proper ventilation and humidity control, as well as addressing any signs of mold growth promptly. By taking these steps, homeowners can reduce the risk of respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues associated with mold exposure.

Koala Insulation does not treat mold growth. We replace insulation the time in crawl spaces and many are just fine. Your insulation might be sagging because of poor install or time. Or it might be the weight of moisture trapped in the batts. If that's the case, we will remove it and recommend a trusted professional to inspect it before we carry on with the next step.