Mold Allergies in Fall

As summer fades and the crisp, cool air of fall rolls in, many people welcome the change of season. But for some, autumn brings more than just colorful leaves and pumpkin spice—it also brings an uptick in mold allergies. Mold is a year-round allergen, but during the fall, certain conditions can cause mold to grow rapidly, worsening symptoms for those affected by mold allergies.

In this article, we’ll explore why mold thrives in the fall, common sources of mold during this season, how it can affect your home, and the steps you can take to reduce exposure and limit the number of spores in the indoor environment.  

Why Mold Thrives in the Fall

Mold requires moisture, warmth, and organic material to grow, and while it's often associated with the dampness of spring, fall offers the perfect conditions for mold growth. As temperatures drop, leaves fall and decay, creating a prime breeding ground for mold spores. Increased rain, humidity, and cooler temperatures can trap moisture inside homes, leading to the growth of mold both outdoors and indoors.

Furthermore, homes are often more closed up in the fall as people try to keep warm, reducing ventilation and allowing indoor humidity to increase.  As temperatures outside drop, individuals will regularly adjust the heating in their homes, creating suboptimal humidity levels. This humidity will find its way to the cold spots around windows, doors, anywhere where the outdoor cold air may find a way in, creating moisture for mold spores to grow.

This sets the stage for mold spores to settle in carpets, upholstery, and even walls, exacerbating allergy symptoms.

Common Sources of Mold in the Fall

1. Decaying Leaves: The most notorious source of mold in the fall is decaying leaves. Fallen leaves accumulate in yards, gardens, and gutters, and as they break down, they become a breeding ground for mold spores.

2. Basements and Crawl Spaces: Cooler temperatures can cause condensation in poorly ventilated areas like basements and crawl spaces, creating moisture that mold can feed on.

3. Bathrooms and Kitchens: These areas are prone to high humidity year-round, but fall's cooler weather can increase indoor humidity if homes aren’t properly ventilated, allowing mold to grow in damp corners.

Effects of Mold in Your Home During the Fall

Mold doesn’t just affect the air quality—it can damage the very structure of your home. As mold grows, it can weaken walls, ceilings, and floors, leading to expensive repairs. It can also ruin carpets, curtains, and furniture.

More importantly, for people with mold allergies, these spores can trigger a range of symptoms, from sneezing and coughing to itchy eyes, skin rashes, and even asthma attacks. Prolonged exposure to mold can exacerbate respiratory conditions, especially in children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Mold allergies can turn the beauty of fall into an uncomfortable season for many. By understanding why mold thrives during this time of year and identifying common sources, you can take proactive steps to reduce exposure and keep your home mold-free. Simple actions like managing humidity, cleaning up outdoor areas, and ensuring proper ventilation can make all the difference in keeping mold at bay, allowing you to enjoy the season allergy-free.