Bozeman Asthma: Is Altitude Hiding Mold Lungs?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 11, 2026

Are you constantly battling a cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath in Bozeman? You might be attributing it to the altitude, the dry mountain air, or even just a lingering cold. But what if the real culprit is lurking within the walls of your home, specifically, mold? In Bozeman, particularly in older homes struggling to keep up with modern weatherization standards, mold-related illness is a silent epidemic that often goes undiagnosed. Let’s dive into how to identify, address, and overcome this hidden health hazard.

Bozeman’s unique climate, with its cold winters and relatively short summers, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold in homes that aren’t properly sealed and ventilated. Older homes, often built before modern building codes emphasizing moisture control, are particularly vulnerable. Think of those charming, historic homes in the Southside or near downtown; their character comes with a potential hidden cost.

Mold thrives in damp, dark environments. Leaky roofs, poorly insulated basements, and inadequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens are common entry points for moisture, leading to mold growth. The problem is exacerbated by Bozeman’s freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause cracks in foundations and exterior walls, allowing water to seep in.

But how do you know if your persistent cough is altitude sickness or something more sinister? Altitude sickness typically manifests with headaches, nausea, and fatigue, often improving with acclimatization. Mold-related illness, on the other hand, presents with a broader range of symptoms, including:

Persistent cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Sinus congestion and runny nose.
Skin rashes and itching.
Headaches and fatigue.
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating.
Digestive issues.

The key difference is persistence. If your respiratory symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks, or if they worsen when you’re at home, mold exposure should be a strong consideration.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for Bozeman residents to identify potential mold exposure in their homes:

Visual Inspection: Start with a thorough visual inspection of your home, paying close attention to areas prone to moisture. Check bathrooms, kitchens, basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Look for visible mold growth, water stains, or musty odors. Don’t forget to check behind furniture and under carpets.
Sniff Test: Trust your nose. A musty or earthy odor is a strong indicator of mold, even if you can’t see it. Pay attention to areas where the odor is strongest.
Moisture Meter: Invest in a moisture meter, available at most hardware stores in Bozeman (like Murdoch’s or Ace Hardware). Use it to check the moisture content of walls, floors, and ceilings, especially in areas where you suspect water damage. A reading above 20% indicates a potential problem.
Professional Inspection: If you suspect mold but can’t find it, or if you’re experiencing significant health symptoms, consider hiring a professional mold inspector. Several reputable companies in Bozeman specialize in mold detection and remediation.
DIY Mold Testing: While professional testing is more accurate, you can also purchase DIY mold testing kits online or at local hardware stores. These kits typically involve collecting a sample of dust or air and sending it to a lab for analysis. However, be aware that DIY kits can sometimes produce false negatives or inaccurate results.

Now, let’s talk about remediation. If you find mold in your home, it’s crucial to address it promptly to prevent further health problems and structural damage. The best approach depends on the extent of the mold growth.

Small Areas (less than 10 square feet): You can often clean up small areas of mold yourself using a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection, and ensure proper ventilation. Scrub the affected area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Large Areas (more than 10 square feet): For larger areas of mold growth, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company. These companies have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove mold and prevent its recurrence. They will also address the underlying moisture problem that caused the mold growth in the first place.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Ignoring the Source of Moisture: Simply cleaning up the mold without addressing the underlying moisture problem is a recipe for disaster. The mold will inevitably return. Identify and fix any leaks, improve ventilation, and ensure proper drainage around your home.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products: Bleach is effective for killing mold on non-porous surfaces, but it’s not effective on porous materials like drywall or wood. In these cases, you may need to remove and replace the affected materials.
Cross-Contamination: Be careful not to spread mold spores to other areas of your home during the cleanup process. Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting and use a HEPA vacuum to clean up any dust or debris.
Not Disclosing Mold Issues: If you’re selling your home in Bozeman, you’re legally required to disclose any known mold issues to potential buyers. Failure to do so can result in legal action.

Local Resources for Bozeman Residents:

Gallatin County Health Department: Provides information and resources on indoor air quality and mold prevention.
Montana Department of Environmental Quality: Offers guidance on mold assessment and remediation.
Local Mold Remediation Companies: Several reputable companies in Bozeman specialize in mold detection and remediation. Research and choose a company with proper licensing and insurance.
Hardware Stores: Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply and Ace Hardware carry a variety of mold testing kits, cleaning products, and moisture meters.

Living in Bozeman offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation and a high quality of life. Don’t let undiagnosed mold-related illness steal your breath and diminish your enjoyment of this beautiful place. By taking proactive steps to identify and address mold in your home, you can protect your health and well-being and breathe easier in the mountains. Remember, a healthy home is a happy home, especially in Bozeman.