What can cause mold to start growing in a building quickly?

Moisture intrusion is a primary trigger for rapid mold growth within a building. When water infiltrates a building—whether from leaks in the roof, walls, plumbing issues, or other sources—it creates a conducive environment for mold to thrive. Mold spores are present in the air and on various surfaces; when they encounter a wet environment, they can germinate and proliferate swiftly.

The presence of excessive moisture due to intrusion saturates materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, which not only supports mold growth but also makes it difficult to control. Once moisture levels rise above certain thresholds, it can take as little as 24 to 48 hours for mold to begin developing.

While high humidity, poor ventilation, and temperature changes can also contribute to mold problems, they are typically more indirect when compared to moisture intrusion. High humidity increases the likelihood of moisture accumulation, poor ventilation can trap humid air, and temperature changes can influence moisture retention in the air. However, these factors alone may not create the immediate risks that direct moisture intrusion does, making it the most critical cause of rapid mold growth.