by
Lawton Brothers
| Jun 05, 2025
Warm weather brings more than just sunshine—it brings moisture. And in the high-humidity climates of the Southeast, that moisture is the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Schools, healthcare facilities, office buildings, and commercial spaces all face increased risk during the summer months, especially in areas with limited ventilation, plumbing issues, or older construction.
At Lawton Bros, we’ve been helping facility managers prevent and remediate mold and mildew for over 75 years. Below, we share industry best practices and product recommendations to keep your facility protected, compliant, and safe.
Understanding the Risk: Why Mold and Mildew Thrive in Summer
Mold and mildew are both types of fungi, but mildew is typically a surface-level problem, while mold can penetrate materials and damage structures. Both thrive in:
Warm, damp environments
Areas with little air circulation
Surfaces that retain organic material (dust, grease, skin cells)
Poorly maintained HVAC systems
Common problem areas include:
Restrooms and locker rooms
Under sinks or near plumbing fixtures
Carpeted areas with spills or poor drying
Gymnasiums and locker rooms
Window sills and HVAC ducts
If unchecked, mold can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, structural damage, and—in the case of schools or public facilities—trigger violations of safety regulations or lawsuits.
Best Practices for Preventing Mold and Mildew
1. Maintain Optimal Indoor Humidity Levels
Mold typically thrives when indoor humidity exceeds 60%. The target range for most buildings is between 30% and 50%.
Action Steps:
Install or maintain dehumidifiers in problem-prone areas
Monitor humidity using wall-mounted or IoT-enabled sensors
Keep windows and doors closed during high-humidity periods
Lawton Bros Tip:
We recommend installing humidity sensors near restrooms, basements, or utility closets to proactively monitor conditions before mold forms.
2. Prioritize HVAC Maintenance
HVAC systems that are clogged, leaking, or poorly balanced can circulate warm, moist air—feeding mold growth in ducts and vents.
Action Steps:
Replace filters monthly during high-use periods
Check for condensate drain clogs or leaks
Clean air ducts annually or as needed
Balance air circulation across all zones
Lawton Bros Tip:
Use EPA-registered HVAC coil cleaners that eliminate organic build-up without leaving residue, especially in schools and healthcare settings.
3. Implement a Summer Deep Cleaning Program
Surface contamination—especially in damp areas—is a leading cause of mildew. Summer is the best time to sanitize and seal surfaces before school, staff, and foot traffic return.
Focus Areas:
Strip and refinish hard floors (mildew can form in unsealed grout)
Shampoo and extract carpets using hot water and antimicrobial treatments
Disinfect restroom tiles, walls, and ceilings
Sanitize under furniture, cabinets, and appliances
Lawton Bros Tip:
Choose disinfectants labeled as fungicidal, and ensure they meet EPA List K (for mold remediation). We offer several fast-acting, residue-free options ideal for high-risk areas.
4. Address Moisture at the Source
If your cleaning program is addressing visible mildew again and again, it’s time to investigate the root cause: moisture infiltration.
Checklist for Facilities Teams:
Inspect roofing and gutters for leaks or pooling
Repair cracked caulking around windows and doors
Check plumbing for slow leaks or condensation
Use anti-slip matting with airflow channels to avoid trapped moisture
Lawton Bros Tip:
Our matting experts can help you select entry and restroom mats that dry quickly and inhibit microbial growth, preventing buildup underfoot.
5. Train Staff for Early Detection and Response
One of the most effective tools against mold? Your custodial team. With the right training, staff can identify early signs of mold and mildew before it spreads.
Train staff to look for:
Musty odors
Discolored spots on ceiling tiles or baseboards
Condensation on windows or pipes
Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
Lawton Bros Tip:
We offer onsite training and product education for cleaning crews, empowering them to choose the right tools and act quickly when mold is detected.
Recommended Products for Mold Prevention & Remediation
Fungicidal Disinfectants: EPA-registered and safe for daily use
Dehumidifiers and Air Movers: Industrial-grade solutions for moisture control
Encapsulation Cleaners: Ideal for HVAC coils, carpets, and hard surfaces
Drain Maintenance Treatments: Keep biofilm from forming in wet areas
Non-slip, antimicrobial floor mats: For locker rooms, restrooms, and kitchens
Ask your Lawton Bros representative for a tailored product list based on your facility’s needs.
Stay Ahead of Mold This Summer
The best defense against mold and mildew is a proactive one. By staying ahead of humidity and focusing on smart cleaning strategies, you can prevent outbreaks, reduce health risks, and maintain the long-term integrity of your facility.
Need help building your mold prevention plan?
Lawton Bros is here to help—from product guidance to hands-on training. Reach out to your rep or contact us today to schedule a consultation.