5 Ways to Prevent Mold in the Home
While some climates are more humid than others, homes anywhere in the country are at risk for mold growth due to environmental conditions. By routinely checking problems and a little prevention, your home can have better indoor air quality and remain mold-free.
Check Your Plumbing and Fix Leaks Immediately
Homeowners should do a periodic inspection of the home’s plumbing system checking for leaks or other problems that can lead to expensive repairs. Areas to watch out for: under sinks in the kitchen and bathroom, round toilets or washing machines, or any other area where water can enter including attic or crawl space access. If you find any water, stains, soft spots on wood, or smell any amount of mold, call a professional to fix the problem as soon as possible and take steps to ensure that the wet areas can either be dried completely or replaced.
Encourage Air Flow and Keep Overall Humidity Levels Low
Environmental health experts recommend keeping the humidity level in the home between 40 and 60 percent. Using an air conditioner or dehumidifier during the summer months helps to reduce moisture in the air. Good air circulation can also help prevent mold from taking hold. Open windows when the humidity is low and ensure bathroom exhaust fans are working well and used while showering. Also, check laundry dryer vents to ensure that moisture is being drawn properly out of the house.
Use Mold-Eliminating Cleaners and Mold-Resistant Paint
Bathrooms often have mold growth because of the warm, humid conditions. Clean floors and walls with a product that eliminates mold growth, such as a chlorine bleach solution or another cleaning product. Washing bathroom rugs and shower curtains regularly can also help prevent mold spores from breeding. Mold-resistant paint in bathrooms forms a barrier that helps prevent mold growth so that if mold does develop, you can clean it more easily.
Clean Up Flooding Quickly to Prevent Mold Growth
If any area of your home floods due to broken pipes or excessing rain, it is important to remove all the water and any water-soaked materials within 24-48 hours to prevent mold from taking hold. You may need a professional to remove carpeting and furniture and use industrial fans to dry the area properly. In extreme cases, drywall, framing or even floors may need to be replaced.
Hire a Professional
The best way to prevent mold in your home is to contact a professional for a mold inspection. If there is mold, it’s best to catch it early as the remediation costs will be much cheaper before a larger problem occurs., You will also receive the benefit of healthier indoor air and be less likely to get sick from breathing in mold spores.
5-Star Google-rated, Angell’s Home Inspection can inspect your home for mold and recommend remediation professionals if needed. Call us today at (860) 402-6644 or schedule your inspection here.
