Mold, fungus on wooden, plastic windows, slopes: reasons, how to remove and prevent?

Despite the obvious advantages of plastic windows, they have very serious disadvantages that can negatively affect the entire house as a whole. Fungus and mold can form on the window, which can then spread to other areas (which is especially dangerous for wooden structures).

PVC windows “go moldy” for a reason, there are reasons for this. For example, this problem often arises due to freezing of windows, which is important for the winter and late autumn period. The windows simply “sweat” from the inside, which leads to the appearance of condensation, the accumulation of which leads to the appearance of fungus and mold.

Fungus and mold on windows: the main reasons for their appearance on plastic and wooden frames and slopes

The main factors why fungus and mold appear on windows and slopes:

High humidity. In winter, the permissible norm is 30-40%. If the slopes and frames turn black, this indicates increased humidity of 60%. More often this problem occurs in the kitchen and bathroom, where there is a lot of moisture evaporation.
High room temperature. In order for mold spores to “feel good” and actively reproduce, the air temperature should be 15-38 C°. The most optimal is 22-27 C°. Therefore, the recommended norm during the heating season for humans is 20-22 C°.
Lack of ventilation. Plastic structures do not “breathe” and do not allow air to pass through, like wooden windows. The natural circulation of oxygen is blocked. Wood provides micro-ventilation. But if the residents of a house or apartment rarely ventilate the room, even if they have wooden windows, then this greatly increases the formation of mold on the slopes and along the perimeter of the window frame.

Important: All cracks, chips on wooden frames, gaps in joints or seams, as well as poor sealing of the glass unit allow cold air to pass through. And when it combines with the warm flow, condensation forms. And puddles on the window are an ideal place for mold.

The cracks create constant drafts

Antiseptic treatment

Since mold can form on different surfaces (slope, window frame, glass, walls, etc.), modern antiseptic substances, which can be selected according to the structure and type of damaged surface, will help to remove it. Such products can be purchased at a hardware or construction store, or you can make them yourself.

Of course, the store will provide you with qualified assistance in choosing the right product in terms of price/quality, but in order to save money, you can try preparing the solution yourself. A solution based on vinegar and boric acid. To prepare you will need:

200ml vinegar (70%).
200 ml boric acid.
1 liter of water.
A solution of sodium fluoride and copper sulfate.

Boric acid 3%
For the cleanser you will need:

100ml sodium fluoride.
100 ml of copper sulfate.
1 liter of water.

Note! Antiseptic agents must be used to treat absolutely the entire surface of the “infected” window: the one from which the mold was removed, as well as those places that were not affected. You will ask why?". The fungus may appear again and the wall will begin to mold so much that it will require the installation of not only new slopes, but also a complete replacement of the entire window profile.

Fungus and mold on windows: additional causes of condensation

Let us repeat that constant moisture on windows leads to the growth of fungal spores. Plastic windows are more susceptible to this due to the tightness of the frame itself. But it is worth highlighting the reasons that many overlook, and they apply to any windows.

Additional reasons why fungus and mold appear on windows:

Incorrect installation or assembly of the structure itself. That is, if there are cracks or emptiness between the frame and the wall, then there will be a constant draft in the house
Insufficient layer of polyurethane foam. Or has it dried out over time?
If the cleaning was initially done poorly and the foam did not stick well
When the window sill is not used and water accumulates under the frame
Distortion of the frame itself due to insufficient use of dowels or too wide a distance to the slopes
If the window was installed directly on the insulation without wedges
Gaps or cracks in the wall
The window sill and slopes are too wide. A large window sill blocks the circulation of warm air from the radiators in order to properly dry the window from condensation
Insufficient radiator/heating radiator
The curtains are too thick, which also blocks the air to the window

A large number of flowers increases humidity and interferes with circulation

Preventive actions

If you follow the rules of prevention, this will destroy favorable conditions for mold and will save you a lot of trouble. The main thing you need to pay attention to is the relative humidity. A small percentage is created when exhaling, from a heated body. Some part comes from the evaporation of water in the house. A huge percentage is obtained by boiling the liquid and drying the damp fabric. The last two reasons need to be controlled.

The second thing you need to pay attention to is mold breeding grounds. She loves cotton fabric. Ideal conditions are created in the ground where plants grow, since many of them love warmth and moisture. Even dirt can cause it. If you get rid of these factors, you can reduce the likelihood of fungus. Or use the technical method:

Of course, mold can be a source of unnecessary worries and pose a health hazard. However, knowing weaknesses, you can successfully combat them, and most importantly, prevent conditions for their occurrence.

For those who are planning to reinstall a window, this video may be useful:

Fungus and mold on windows: control methods

You need to remove fungus and mold on windows according to the following scheme:

Carry out a thorough cleaning of mold spores by washing
If the fungus is very ingrained, you should use a brush, sandpaper, spatula or any sharp object. It is important to remove all deep stains, loose putty or damaged wallpaper.
Dry the surface
Use antifungal drugs or fungicides (list below)
Some chemical solutions require that they be washed off with clean water. Therefore, read the instructions
Dry the entire window area well with a building/household hairdryer, selecting a warm mode or another heating device
If the mold is very “ingrained”, then the procedure can be repeated 2-3 times
Waterproof the window frame - seal all seams and joints. Wooden windows can be covered with paper or cloth. But now you can use window sealant (acrylic, silicone, semi-sulfide, polyurethane) or special tape for both plastic and wooden frames.

Tip: Finally, you can diffuse a water solution of antiseptic essential oils, such as tea tree, clove, lavender or orange, grapefruit. But keep in mind - oils do not dissolve in water! First, 5-6 drops must be dissolved in 1 tbsp. l. alcohol and then mix with 100 ml of water. The proportions can be adjusted depending on the surface to be treated and the desired intensity of the solution.

Wipe off the mold thoroughly

Combating an unfavorable environment

To eradicate the problem completely, it is necessary to destroy the environment in which the growth of harmful microorganisms occurs. A thorough analysis of the window, frame, slopes and cornices should be carried out. Seal all cracks and eliminate possible drafts. Treat all seams with sealant to prevent future moisture penetration. Insulate the opening, apply plaster, pre-treating it with special primers and anti-mold compounds.

Fungus and mold on windows and slopes: how to remove?

You can simply wipe off the fungus and mold on the windows, but on the slopes this is not enough. Firstly, it is not so easy to remove, and secondly, you need to fight the cause, not the consequences! Otherwise, disputes will return again, capturing new territories.

It is necessary to completely dismantle the slopes and remove the window sill
Thoroughly wash the entire area, treat with antiseptic preparations based on chlorine or biocide
Fill large gaps with polystyrene foam and blow out cracks with foam. Don't forget to trim off any excess frozen areas. To guarantee, apply sealant
Return all parts to their place. Putty the slopes, paint or cover them with the desired materials (plasterboard, plastic or MDF panels)
Slopes can be waterproofed with a special mastic that does not allow moisture to pass through and protects against the proliferation of fungal spores. You can also use sealant or tape

Seal all the cracks!

Consolidate the result

To prevent mold from appearing on the window sill and around the glass, it is necessary to waterproof it, eliminating the cause of fogging. After removing and dismantling the slopes, the builders' shortcomings will become visible. It is necessary to compensate for the lack of waterproofing material and fill all the voids between the wall and the window with polyurethane foam. Foam damaged by rot is also cut off, and the cracks are covered with putty or sealant.

Mastic is ideal for insulation, making the wall and slopes waterproof. Another significant advantage is durability. The applied waterproofing can last for several years and will not allow the surfaces to “bloom”.

Instead of mastic, you can use a primer that contains rubber. It will cover the wall with a thin film that will repel excess water and create a barrier to mold.

It is most convenient to apply such products using a silicone brush. Please note that the layer will not dry immediately - it will take several hours.

How to remove fungus and mold on windows: a review of the best chemicals

You can buy a product to remove mold and mildew from windows at any hardware store. Moreover, they are suitable for working on any surface - concrete, brick, plasterboard, plaster or paint, ceramics, stone or wood. We offer a list of the best anti-mold drugs:

Olympus stop mold
Metas- BIO
Tex
NANO-FIX
Abedis 06
Fongifluid Alpa
SCHIMMEL-ENTFERNER
Dali
Dufa
Vincents Polyline

Review
You should be careful with plastic windows - against strong agents, and with prolonged exposure, the plastic may turn yellow. Therefore, it is better to choose the following means, since they are less aggressive:

NEOMID Bio
Biotsid-S
Mellrud
Tilex
HG

Important : Take precautions, cover your eyes, head and hands! And always follow the instructions! Before purchasing, find out the degree of toxicity of the drug, whether it can be used indoors or on a certain surface, and how it affects animals.
Typically, chemicals are sprayed and removed along with the mold. If necessary, the procedure should be repeated to remove mold to the base. Then an antifungal primer is applied.

Treat every area

How to remove fungus and mold on windows and slopes: folk remedies

Available medications will also help to combat fungus and mold on windows, slopes and even walls. We highlight the most effective:

Whiteness/bleach – diluted in a ratio of 1:10. Using gloves, wipe all areas; no need to rinse. Please note that chlorine lightens some materials!
Domestos – has a rather aggressive smell. Dilute 1:100, no need to rinse. It is worth wiping 2-3 times a week, for 2-3 weeks and for preventive purposes.
Copper sulfate - dilute 1 to 100 with water. Those. for 1 liter only 10 g of vitriol. Work only with good ventilation and wearing a respirator. May give a bluish color to some materials, no need to rinse off
Borax – dilute in a ratio of 1:10. Absolutely safe for humans! No need to rinse
Soda is another safe remedy. Dilute 1 tsp. in 200 ml of water, thoroughly rinse all infected areas. No need to rinse

Folk remedy

Hydrogen peroxide 3% - no need to dilute. It is necessary to spray and leave for 10 minutes to soak. Remove along with mold and rinse with clean water
Peroxide and soda - mixed until it becomes a paste. Apply a thick layer for 30 minutes and wash off with clean water.
Ammonia – dilute in a 1:1 ratio. Wash off after 4 hours. It has a very pungent smell!

Important: Never mix ammonia with chlorine-containing substances! The chemical reaction provokes the release of a very harmful gas.

Vinegar – used undiluted, washed off 1 hour after application with clean water
Soap solution made from laundry soap 72%. For severe damage, soap will not help, but it is an excellent and safe prevention of mold on windows or in other areas of the house! It is enough to dissolve a small piece of soap in water and clean in high-risk areas.

Proportions

Technology to help

An ultraviolet lamp also helps fight mold that appears on window frames, window sills and walls. Studies have shown that its rays effectively destroy almost all types of pathogenic microorganisms, which include fungal spores. Therefore, such a household appliance can be used regularly for preventive purposes. The main thing is to follow the precautions prescribed in the instructions. In particular, do not stay in the room while the device is operating and ventilate the room after treatment is completed.

Ozonizer

An ozonizer is another indispensable assistant in the fight against germs, mold and dust mites. Within an hour of operation, the device is able to completely clean the room of pathogenic organisms. But it should be remembered that ozone in high concentrations has a poisonous effect, so you should not be near a working device, and after finishing the treatment, the room must be thoroughly ventilated.

How to prevent fungus and mold on windows and slopes: preventive measures, tips

To prevent mold and mildew on windows from bothering you in the future, follow some rules. But most importantly, watch the humidity level! Otherwise, all mold control will be ineffective.

If possible, do not dry things in the house, as they greatly increase the humidity. You will learn what the danger is and how to dry clothes indoors in our next article “Why is it dangerous and how to properly dry different things in an apartment/house?”
Ventilate regularly! Preferably 2 times a day for at least 15 minutes. If you have no other choice but to dry things indoors, then ventilate more often and more - at least 3 times for 30 minutes
In the kitchen, while cooking, turn on the hood or open a window for micro-ventilation
In the bathroom, turn on the hood or leave the door open for a while after bathing
Use an air dehumidifier, an ozonizer or a quartz lamp, and place an odor absorber (sorbents in the form of tiny balls) on the windowsill. Alternatively, you can turn on the heat fan - it will also dry the air
Check the ventilation system, it may need to be cleaned or repaired
If you have a wide window sill, install special grilles or make a series of holes at the level of the radiator so that warm air reaches the windows

Create air circulation in the windowsill

It would not hurt to install ventilation valves or microclimate systems in plastic windows, which will independently normalize the microclimate in the house
Any leaks in the house also increase humidity. Eliminate them on time
Prevent mold from growing in flower pots. A large amount of it also increases the humidity in the house and blocks normal air circulation to the window. Violet and geranium promote mold growth
Wipe off condensation immediately!
Monitor the condition of windows and the operation of mechanisms
Immediately repair any cracks and holes in the walls and ceilings
Keep your windows clean regularly
Once a month, carry out preventive cleaning using chemicals or folk remedies
Open curtains more often and choose them only from natural materials
If interior doors are installed, open them more often so that air can move freely throughout the apartment/house