Why Moisture in the Air Can Be a Hidden Threat — and What to Do About It
If you have lived in Arkansas for any length of time, you know how humid it can get — especially in the spring and summer. While we may be used to the sticky air outdoors, indoor humidity can become a serious problem.
One of the biggest issues with high humidity inside the home: Mold Growth.
At K9 Mold Inspections LLC, we help Arkansas homeowners detect mold with a professionally trained mold detection dog.
One of the common root causes of indoor mold growth? Consistently high indoor humidity levels.
Let’s break down why this happens, what to watch for, and how to protect your home.
Why Humidity Fuels Mold Growth
Mold only needs two things to thrive:
- Moisture
- Organic material (like drywall, wood, baseboards, etc)
Humidity provides that constant source of moisture — even if there hasn’t been a leak or flood. When indoor humidity stays above 55%, it creates an ideal breeding ground for mold, especially in places with limited air flow like closets, crawl spaces, and unventilated rooms or rooms with poor air circulation.
Common Causes of High Indoor Humidity in Arkansas Homes
- Poor ventilation, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and attics
- No dehumidifier, even during peak summer humidity
- Tightly sealed homes without adequate air circulation
- Crawl spaces or basements with damp soil or poor drainage
- Drying clothes indoors or using unvented appliances
- Air conditioning units that are oversized or improperly maintained
Where Mold Often Grows Due to Humidity
Even without visible water damage, mold can form in:
- Attics with poor airflow
- Crawl spaces with bare earth or venting
- Behind walls, especially exterior walls during humid months
- Inside HVAC systems and ducts
- Bathrooms and laundry rooms without exhaust fans
- Closets and cabinets, particularly along outside walls
You may not see mold right away — but if you notice a musty odor, feel worse at home, or spot condensation on windows or pipes, high humidity could be to blame.
Signs You Might Have a Humidity-Related Mold Problem
- Persistent musty smells in certain rooms
- Condensation on windows or pipes
- Warped wood, bubbling paint, or discolored walls
- Family members with allergy or asthma symptoms that worsen indoors
- Your humidity readings consistently above 55%
A basic digital hygrometer will help you monitor your indoor humidity levels.
How to Control Indoor Humidity & Prevent Mold
- Use a dehumidifier, especially in basements, encapsulated crawl spaces, or large living areas
- Run exhaust fans when showering, cooking, or doing laundry
- Seal crawl spaces with encapsulation
- Improve attic ventilation with ridge vents or fans
- Fix plumbing leaks and roof issues promptly
- Avoid carpet and wallpaper in humid areas like bathrooms and basements
- Have your HVAC system serviced regularly to ensure it is removing moisture properly
Why Canine Mold Detection Is Ideal in Humid Climates
Mold is often hidden inside walls, under flooring, or inside HVAC systems. That is where our trained mold detection dog comes in.
At K9 Mold Inspections LLC, we use a scent-trained dog to detect mold that visual inspections often miss. If your Arkansas home has been exposed to high humidity and you are unsure if mold is present, we can give you fast, accurate answers without tearing into walls.
We serve homeowners throughout Arkansas, including Little Rock, Benton, Conway, Bryant, and Hot Springs.
Don’t Let Humidity Sneak Up On You
Arkansas weather may be humid — but that doesn’t mean mold has to be part of your home. Whether you are noticing musty odors, have ongoing health issues, or just want peace of mind, we are here to help.