Summer in Fairmont: Beauty, Barbecues, and…Basement Flooding?
Summers in Fairmont are no joke. Between the breathtaking lake views at Sisseton and Budd to neighborhood strolls through Heritage Acres and cozy backyard get-togethers in Woodland Avenue homes, this is the season locals wait for all year. But right alongside the warm weather and community festivals comes a not-so-welcome visitor: summer storms and sky-high humidity.
With those come water damage and mold, two problems no homeowner wants lurking behind their walls or under their floors. When the humidity level for mold growth rises above 60%, your home becomes a prime target for mold colonies to move in and throw their own kind of house party.
Let’s break down how to protect your Fairmont home, so the only thing growing this summer is your garden, not spores.
When Sunshine Turns to Soaked: Summer Storms in Fairmont
Summer tends to swing between stunning blue skies and sudden, heavy storms that roll in fast and hard. One minute you're walking your dog near George Lake, and the next, thunder’s rattling your windows. Once the rain hits, the moisture likes to stick around.
So, what makes Fairmont so prone to humidity?
- Sticky Summers: Thanks to our geography, Fairmont experiences elevated humidity levels during the summer, especially after thunderstorms.
- Humidity Level for Mold Growth: Once indoor air climbs past 60% humidity, mold can grow in less than 48 hours in moisture-prone places like older basements and crawl spaces.
- Storm Damage Creates Openings: Hail, high winds, and clogged gutters can damage roofs and siding, leaving gaps for water to sneak in. When water meets warm temperatures, mold is practically invited in.
- Drainage Struggles: During a major downpour, overwhelmed sump pumps and backed-up gutters can cause water to rush into basements fast.
Mold Moves into Your Home When the Air Gets Thick
Mold is an eyesore and a health hazard. It thrives in the exact conditions that define a typical Fairmont summer.
- Above 60% = Mold Mayhem: Mold adores humidity, and a humidity level for mold growth usually begins at the 60% mark. Unfortunately, that’s a number your home can hit easily after a storm.
- Hidden Trouble Spots: Mold likes a dark and damp environment, like under carpets, behind walls, or in the attic insulation. If it smells musty, mold may be nearby.
- Health Clues: Chronic coughing, sneezing, or sinus issues? These could be signs your home’s air is compromised by mold even if you haven’t spotted it yet.
H2: Chase Out the Damp Before Mold Camps Out
Give mold the boot before it even gets a foothold.
- Dehumidify It: Run a dehumidifier in your basement if it’s prone to mustiness. The goal? Keep your humidity level for mold growth below 60%.
- Vent the Dampness Out: Use exhaust fans in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas. Cooking and hot showers can spike humidity indoors.
- Seal the Gaps: Storms make tiny cracks around windows, doors, and plumbing. Seal them up to block humid air from creeping in.
- Measure It: Grab a hygrometer (they’re inexpensive) to monitor your home's humidity daily. Think of it as a smoke alarm for preventing mold.
- Storm-Check Routine: After every heavy rain, inspect the basement, attic, and crawl spaces. If anything looks damp or smells funky, it’s time to act.
Spotted Mold in Your House? Here’s Your Game Plan
So, you’ve found the dreaded black spots or sniffed out that telltale musty scent.
Here’s what to do next:
- Move Fast: Mold spreads quickly. The longer you wait, the bigger the problem (and the repair bill).
- Contain the Area: Shut the door, turn off any HVAC system in the area, and avoid spreading spores throughout your home.
- Call in the Pros: ServiceMaster by Rice in Fairmont is fully equipped to handle mold safely and completely. DIY fixes may only scratch the surface.
- Loop In Your Insurance: Reach out to your provider. Some policies cover mold remediation if it results from storm damage.
ServiceMaster by Rice – Fairmont: Your Neighborhood Moisture Specialists
Our team lives and works right here in Martin County, and we’ve seen firsthand how summer storms and rising humidity levels can wreak havoc on homes in neighborhoods like Belle Vue, Lair Road, and Downtown Fairmont.
This is how our restoration team can help:
- Mold-Busting Masters: We find where it’s hiding, show it the door, and bring your space back to clean, safe, and breathable.
- Storm Cleanup Superheroes: From soaked basements to sneaky roof leaks, we dry it up, clean it out, and fix it fast.
- Fairmont-Savvy Fixers: We know the ups, downs, and damp corners that come with our weather and older homes, especially when basements are involved.
- Insurance Sidekicks: We work directly with your insurance company to make the paperwork part as painless as possible.
Keep Your Home Cool, Dry, and Mold-Free This Summer
When those summer storms hit Fairmont and the humidity level for mold growth starts climbing, your home doesn’t have to take the brunt of it. Staying on top of indoor moisture is a smart way to protect your health, your home, and everyone under your roof.
Noticed water damage or a funky smell that might be mold? Give ServiceMaster by Rice in Fairmont, MN, a call or fill out our contact form. We’ll take care of the mess so you can focus on the good stuff.
Let’s make this summer about lake time, not leak time.
