Galveston Mold: Salt Air, Hidden AC Risk?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

October 30, 2025

The musty smell hits you the moment you open the door. It’s not just an unpleasant odor; it’s a warning sign, especially here in Galveston. That salty air we love, combined with the constant battle against humidity and the ever-running AC, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold. Ignoring it won’t make it go away; it will only make it worse, potentially impacting your health and the value of your home.

This isn’t just about wiping down a surface with bleach. We’re talking about understanding the specific challenges Galveston homeowners face when it comes to mold, learning how to identify it, and taking the right steps to get rid of it for good.

Let’s dive in.

First, let’s talk about why Galveston is a mold hotspot. The high humidity is the obvious culprit, but the salt air plays a significant role. Salt is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and holds moisture. This means that even when the sun is shining, surfaces in your home are likely to be damp, creating an ideal environment for mold growth.

Then there’s the AC. We all rely on it to stay comfortable, but it can also contribute to the problem. Condensation from AC units, especially if they’re not properly maintained, can lead to leaks and moisture buildup behind walls and under floors. This hidden moisture is a mold’s best friend.

So, what kind of mold are we likely to see in Galveston homes?

Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mold): This is the notorious one, often associated with serious health problems. It’s greenish-black and slimy, and thrives in areas with high cellulose content, like drywall and paper.
Aspergillus: This is a very common mold, with many different species. It can be found in a variety of colors and textures, and is often associated with respiratory problems.
Cladosporium: Another common mold, often found on plants and in soil. It’s usually dark green or black, and can grow in both warm and cool conditions.
Penicillium: This mold is often blue-green in color and is commonly found on food. It can also grow on damp building materials.

Recognizing these common types is the first step. But how do you know if you actually have mold?

DIY mold testing can be a good starting point, but it’s important to understand its limitations. Store-bought mold test kits typically involve collecting a sample and sending it to a lab for analysis. However, these tests can be unreliable and may not accurately identify the type or extent of the mold growth.

A better approach is to use a simple visual inspection combined with a “tape test.”

Here’s how to do a tape test:

Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself.
Press a piece of clear tape firmly onto the suspected mold growth.
Carefully peel the tape off and place it on a clean, clear plastic bag or a glass slide.
Take the sample to a local laboratory for analysis. Many labs in the Houston area, like EMSL Analytical, offer mold testing services.

This method is more reliable than relying solely on store-bought kits, but it’s still not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Now, let’s talk about remediation. If you have a small area of mold growth (less than 10 square feet), you may be able to handle it yourself. However, for larger infestations, it’s best to call in a professional.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to DIY mold removal (for small areas only):

Contain the area: Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting to prevent the spread of mold spores.
Ventilate: Open windows and use fans to ventilate the area.
Protect yourself: Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
Clean the affected area: Use a solution of water and detergent to scrub the mold off the surface. Avoid using bleach, as it can actually make the problem worse by providing moisture for the mold to feed on.
Dry the area thoroughly: Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area completely.
Dispose of contaminated materials: Place contaminated materials, such as rags and sponges, in sealed plastic bags and dispose of them properly.

However, DIY remediation comes with significant risks. You might not be able to completely remove the mold, and you could inadvertently spread spores to other areas of your home. This is where professional remediation comes in.

Professional mold remediation companies in Galveston understand the unique challenges of the coastal environment. They have the equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove mold, and they can also identify and address the underlying causes of the problem.

When choosing a mold remediation company, be sure to:

Check their credentials: Make sure they are licensed and insured. In Texas, mold remediators must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
Ask for references: Talk to previous clients to get an idea of their experience with the company.
Get a detailed estimate: Make sure the estimate includes a clear description of the work to be done, as well as the cost.
Ensure they address the source of the moisture: Mold remediation is only effective if the underlying moisture problem is fixed.

One of the most common sources of moisture in Galveston homes is the HVAC system. Regular AC maintenance is crucial for preventing mold growth.

Here are some tips for maintaining your AC system to prevent mold:

Change your air filters regularly: Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and cause condensation to build up in the system. Change your filters every 1-3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.
Clean your AC coils: Dirty coils can also restrict airflow and cause condensation. Have your AC coils cleaned by a professional at least once a year.
Check for leaks: Inspect your AC unit and ductwork for leaks. Repair any leaks promptly to prevent moisture buildup.
Consider a dehumidifier: A dehumidifier can help to reduce the humidity in your home, making it less hospitable to mold.

Finally, let’s talk about some common mistakes Galveston homeowners make when dealing with mold.

Ignoring the problem: Mold won’t go away on its own. The longer you wait, the worse it will get.
Using bleach: Bleach is not an effective mold killer. It only removes the surface mold, and it can actually make the problem worse by providing moisture for the mold to feed on.
Painting over mold: Painting over mold will not kill it. It will only hide it temporarily, and the mold will eventually grow back through the paint.
Not addressing the source of the moisture: Mold remediation is only effective if the underlying moisture problem is fixed.

Living in Galveston means embracing the beauty of the coast, but it also means being vigilant about mold. By understanding the unique challenges of the environment, taking proactive steps to prevent mold growth, and addressing problems promptly and effectively, you can protect your home and your health. Don’t let mold take hold; take control.