In this post, you will learn…
- How to tell if your windows are growing mold
- How to safely remove mold from your windowsills
- How to prevent mold from growing on your windows
Ever wonder what the discoloration is on your windows? You may be growing mold! Before you panic, read these helpful hints on how identify the mold, get rid of it and prevent it from happening in the future.
How Do I Know if Mold is Growing on My Windows?
Most people do not even realize they have mold growing on their windows. On most homes, mold begins to grow at the bottom of the windows at the joint between the glass and window sash frame. Typically, the mold is colored and able to be seen, but sometimes the mold can be the same color as the window frame, making it very difficult to see. A small amount of discoloration on your windows may be unattractive, but is not harmful. Most homeowners are unaware that the mold seen is not the total amount of mold that has accumulated. Large amounts of mold can potentially be dangerous to you and your family’s health. While window mold does not typically feed on windows themselves, it can destroy wood window frames.
How Do I Get Rid of Mold?
When removing mold from your windows, it is important to understand that safety comes first.
- Before you begin, always put on safety goggles, gloves and a dust mask. You want to make sure you do not ingest the dangerous spores that the mold can release into the air.
- Cover the floor under the window you’re cleaning to catch any of the falling mold.
- It is also very important that there is adequate ventilation in the room. Open a window or door so the mold spores can escape, instead of staying locked in your home.
- Make a mixture of one part bleach to three parts warm water. Scrub the mold off the windowsill using a non-abrasive brush and frequently dip the brush in the bleach mixture. Use a clean rag to then wipe away the mold you loosened..
- Allow the windowsill to dry completely before you close the window. Wipe off any remaining residue.
How Do I Prevent Mold Growth on My Windowsills?
Leaking windows and condensation are the two leading causes for the buildup of mold on a windowsill. There are several ways you can prevent mold.
The easiest way to prevent mold is by replacing your old windows with Stanek® replacement windows, which deliver superior performance in air infiltration and water penetration. Our windows seal tightly, so there is less of a chance that mold will buildup on your windows. Download our free Care and Maintenance Guide for more information on how to clean and maintain your Stanek windows. Another way to prevent mold in your house is to reduce the amount of condensation on your windows. This can be done by setting your air conditioning thermostat above 70 degrees. To maintain proper airflow in your home, it is important to keep ceiling vents open at all times.
To further prevent mold growth on your windows, it is essential to regularly clean your home’s interior. The bedroom and bathroom are two very common places for mold growth indoors. These areas buildup more dust than any other room in the house, so it is important to regularly dust, wipe down and vacuum these areas.
Window mold is an eye sore, but it can also be dangerous to our health. It is important that you prevent mold on windowsills by cleaning your home’s existing windows on a regular basis or by purchasing quality replacement windows from Stanek Windows. Interested in learning more? Schedule your free, in-home estimate with a Stanek Windows professional today.
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