Pennsylvania’s Humid Climate Creates a Perfect Storm for Mold Growth in Your Home
Pennsylvania residents face a unique challenge that many homeowners don’t fully understand: the state’s naturally high humidity levels create ideal conditions for mold growth throughout much of the year. Pennsylvania experiences a humid continental climate with hot and humid summers, and throughout the year, the average humidity in Philadelphia is 67% and Pittsburgh is 68%. This consistently elevated moisture level puts Pennsylvania homes at significant risk for mold problems.
Understanding Pennsylvania’s Humidity Patterns
The highest humidity levels occur in September, reaching 72% in both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, while summers are warm, humid, and wet. June ushers in the start of summer in Pennsylvania, transforming the state’s climate to one that is both warmer and more humid, with summers being warm to hot and humid in the state. These conditions persist for months, creating extended periods where mold can thrive.
The problem extends beyond just summer months. With humidity averaging 72%, September is the most uncomfortable time of year, and even during cooler periods, winter periods have high humidity that can contribute to indoor moisture problems.
The Science Behind Mold Growth and Humidity
Understanding when mold becomes a threat is crucial for Pennsylvania homeowners. Indoor relative humidity (RH) should be kept below 60 percent — ideally between 30 percent and 50 percent, with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommending that relative humidity be maintained below 60% with an ideal range of 30%-50%. However, relative humidity levels above 70 percent and damp and high levels of relative humidity (RH), typically above 70–80%, are known to provide mould-favourable conditions.
The reality for Pennsylvania residents is concerning: exceeding 60% relative humidity indoors can create an environment favorable for molds and mildew, with the relative humidity of 55% or over being a comfortable environment for mold to grow. Given that Pennsylvania’s average humidity frequently exceeds these thresholds, homes throughout the state face ongoing mold risks.
Molds grow best in warm temperatures, 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, though some growth may occur anywhere between 32 and 95 degrees. Pennsylvania’s climate provides these optimal temperature ranges during much of the growing season, compounding the humidity problem.
High-Risk Areas in Pennsylvania Homes
Certain areas of Pennsylvania homes are particularly vulnerable to mold growth due to the state’s humid climate. Crawl spaces where relative humidity (RH) is high are common sites of hidden mold growth, particularly if the crawl space has a bare earth floor, and the relative warmth of the crawl space will dry the soil by evaporation, adding this moisture to the air in the crawl space where it can cause mold to grow.
Wet or damp basements may have mold growing on the walls, floors, carpeting, or on materials stored in the basement, with water standing in sump holes, condensate from an air conditioner or dehumidifier, leaky pipes, or water seeping into the basement all being sources of moisture that can support mold growth.
Bathrooms present another significant challenge. Mold can often be found growing in the bathroom, and if an exhaust fan is not used during bathing, large amounts of moisture can remain in the shower or tub area.
Health and Property Impacts
The consequences of mold growth in Pennsylvania homes extend far beyond aesthetic concerns. Mold can have severe health implications for those with pre-existing conditions and weakened immune systems, such as causing allergic reactions, respiratory distress, and other issues, with symptoms of mold exposure including coughing, itchy eyes, or skin rashes.
From a property standpoint, if a mold and moisture problem goes unaddressed long enough, structural damage is likely to result, and if a roof is allowed to leak long enough, molds can weaken floors and walls by feeding on the wet wood.
Prevention and Professional Solutions
Preventing mold growth in Pennsylvania’s humid climate requires proactive measures. In the summer, air conditioning can de-humidify indoor space, but if the system is too large or too small for the space it serves, the cooling system can create high humidity by cooling without removing water vapor, while a properly sized and maintained system will dehumidify and cool a building.
Humidifiers should be set to produce less than 60 percent relative humidity in the building, as relative humidity greater than 60 percent is likely to result in condensation in the building, which can lead to mold growth.
When prevention isn’t enough, professional intervention becomes necessary. For residents dealing with mold issues, seeking expert help is crucial. Professional Mold Remediation in Bensalem, PA services can provide comprehensive solutions that address both visible mold and underlying moisture problems.
Mack’s Mold Removal, a locally owned company serving Bucks County, understands the unique challenges Pennsylvania’s climate presents. They don’t just remove mold; they find the source and fix it to prevent it from coming back, keeping clients informed every step of the way, from inspection to remediation. With years of experience and a team of trained professionals, they are committed to supplying exceptional services and ensuring the safety and well-being of clients, with professionals adhering to stringent safety protocols and using eco-friendly products.
Taking Action Against Pennsylvania’s Mold Challenge
Pennsylvania’s humid climate isn’t going to change, but homeowners can take control of their indoor environment. Regular monitoring of humidity levels, proper ventilation, prompt repair of water leaks, and professional inspections when needed are essential steps in protecting your home and family.
Professional services offer comprehensive mold inspections, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to identify any signs of mold growth, with certified inspectors conducting thorough assessments, examining both visible and hidden areas for mold presence. This level of expertise is particularly valuable in Pennsylvania, where the state’s climate creates ongoing challenges that require professional knowledge to address effectively.
Don’t let Pennsylvania’s humid climate compromise your home’s safety and your family’s health. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps—including professional remediation when necessary—can help you maintain a healthy, mold-free environment despite the challenging climate conditions that make the Keystone State particularly susceptible to mold growth.