Summers in Chicago can be beautiful—but they’re also incredibly humid. And while we all know to brace ourselves for heatwaves and thunderstorms, there’s one thing many homeowners forget to watch out for: mold.
That sticky, muggy summer air doesn’t just make us uncomfortable—it creates a prime environment for mold to thrive inside homes. If you’ve ever dealt with it, you know it’s more than just a surface-level problem. Mold can trigger health issues, damage your property, and spread fast if it goes unnoticed. That’s why summer is the perfect time to take mold prevention seriously—and why a home inspection from First Choice Inspectors can make all the difference.
What Makes Summer a Mold Magnet?
The answer is simple: humidity and moisture.
In Chicago, it’s not unusual for summer humidity levels to reach 70% or higher. When all that warm, wet air gets trapped indoors—especially in basements, attics, or behind walls—it creates ideal conditions for mold to grow. Add in summer storms, roof leaks, or a poorly ventilated bathroom, and you’ve got a recipe for mold to take hold in places you might not even notice.
Even your air conditioning system, if not running efficiently, can contribute to condensation around vents or windows. And the more moisture in your home, the greater your mold risk.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Mold is sneaky. By the time you see or smell it, there’s a good chance it’s already spread further than you think. It often hides behind drywall, under flooring, or inside insulation—places that aren’t easy to inspect without the right tools.
It’s also not something to take lightly. Mold exposure can trigger everything from mild allergies to more serious respiratory problems. And the longer it goes untreated, the more damage it can cause to your home’s structure.
How First Choice Inspectors Helps You Stay Ahead
At First Choice Inspectors, we take mold seriously—especially during Chicago’s humid summer months. Our team uses advanced thermal imaging equipment to spot moisture problems before they become visible. This technology helps us identify damp areas behind walls or under floors that would otherwise go unnoticed.
When you schedule a mold inspection with us, we:
- Check common problem areas like basements, attics, crawlspaces, and around windows
- Use thermography to find hidden moisture hotspots
- Look for signs of active mold or mold-prone conditions
- Deliver a clear, easy-to-understand inspection report with next steps
We don’t just look for mold—we look for the conditions that lead to mold, so you can fix the root problem before it gets worse.
What You Can Do to Prevent Mold This Summer
While a professional inspection is your best defense, there are a few things you can do to help reduce your risk:
- Run a dehumidifier, especially in the basement
- Keep your gutters clean and make sure water flows away from your foundation
- Use exhaust fans when showering or cooking
- Fix small leaks or plumbing issues right away
- Don’t ignore musty smells—they’re often a red flag
Get Ahead of the Humidity—Before Mold Gets Ahead of You
Don’t wait for that musty smell or black spots on the wall. Summer mold problems often start small, but they can grow quickly. A quick inspection today could save you thousands in repairs down the line—and give you peace of mind.
Ready to protect your home? Call First Choice Inspectors at 773-429-9711 or email us at office@firstchoiceinspectors.com to schedule your inspection. Let us help you stay ahead of mold this summer.