Can Mold Grow on Metal?

Learn about mold on metal surfaces and what leads to it.

Yes, mold can grow on metal surfaces. It doesn’t digest the metal itself, however, but rather the organic matter on the metal that, combined with moisture, leads to its development.

Unlike wood, which mold can and will eat, metal isn’t organic and thus won’t be digested by mold. It’s the dust, oil, and other organic matter that gets eaten up by mold, which happens to be on the metal surfaces.

Interestingly, some types of mold produce acidic byproducts that can exacerbate metal corrosion. This is sometimes referred to as “microbiologically influenced corrosion” (MIC).

Why Does Mold Grow on Metal?

There are two simple conditions that have to be met:

There’s organic matter on the metal surface. Again, that can be dust, oil, dirt, hair, skin, food, and many others.
There’s a moisture source, like a leak or simply high humidity (>60%).

What Metal Surfaces Can Mold Grow On?

These usually include:

HVAC ducts, because of all the dust that can accumulate in them.
Kitchen appliances with oil, food, and other organic matter on them.
Tools or other metal equipment in humid rooms.

What to Do If There's Mold on Metal?

If there’s a lot of mold, it should almost never be DIY cleaned. You need a professional who will not only remove the mold itself but also neutralize the moisture source that led to the infestation in the first place.

Superior Contract Cleaning is such an expert in Lafayette, LA, serving the Acadiana area and broader, depending on the job.

Feel free to call us at any time of day by using the number below. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!