Mold is a dangerous, costly, and silent enemy. The key to defeating mold is prevention. Because moisture is the vital element in mold development, controlling moisture will be the informed homeowner’s weapon of choice. Win the battle and the war – strike first with these 10 mold prevention tips:
Inspect the plumbing in your home. Look behind toilets, under sinks, and any other places where pipes may be hidden. Identify drips before they become leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.- Be aware of condensation in windows and/or on walls and ceilings. Wet areas on carpets, floors, and in basements represent additional danger spots. Identify the source of the moisture and get it treated immediately.
- To prevent moisture-based condensation, reduce moisture in the air by using a dehumidifier. You can also raise the surface temperature of the affected area by increasing air circulation or adding insulation.
- Repair any leaks and increase ventilation if the outside air is cool and dry. Be sure to use a dehumidifier if the outdoor air is warm and humid.
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units (HVAC) will have drip trays. Locate these trays and keep them clean, flowing, and clear of obstructions.
- Dryers and other moisture-generating household appliances must be vented to the outside whenever possible.
- Conduct regular household and HVAC unit inspections or hire a qualified professional to perform this service. Schedule routine appointments to ensure that your units are properly maintained.
- Clean and completely dry any wet area within 48 hours of discovery.
- Keep the foundation of your home dry by having adequate drainage slopes away from your home and its foundation.
- Use a hygrometer to measure your indoor humidity accurately. Below 60 percent relative humidity is good, but the 30 to 50 percent range is ideal.
In many cases, by the time you notice mold growth in your home, the problem has already escalated from a manageable issue to a costly disaster. Do not risk harming your home or endangering your family’s health – win the war against mold with awareness and prevention.
As we transition from winter to spring, heavy rains and melting snow combined with variations in relative humidity will create an optimal environment for mold development, so it’s important to understand how to prevent mold growth from causing costly damage to your home.
At Eaton & Berube, the protection of your home and meaningful assets is important to us. For additional safety tips and useful resources, please subscribe to our blog or contact us.
Photo Credit: Infrogmation