Which condition is critical to prevent mold growth during the restoration process?

Maintaining low humidity levels is essential to prevent mold growth during the restoration process. Mold thrives in environments where moisture levels are high, typically above 60% relative humidity. When humidity is reduced to more manageable levels, it creates an environment that is less conducive for mold spores to activate and grow.

While keeping carpets dry and replacing all wet materials are important actions in the restoration process, they are often not sufficient on their own if the overall humidity in the environment is not controlled. Avoiding heat sources does not directly address the moisture issue that is critical for mold prevention. Thus, focusing on managing humidity levels is a foundational strategy for preventing mold growth effectively during restoration efforts.