Simple Methods To Prevent Mold Growth This Summer
Summer is often the time when home mold growth takes off. Many homes, even newer, well-built homes, can have a problem with mold if their owners are not careful. If mold is common in your area because of a warm, humid climate, you need to be especially careful. Here are some simple methods to help prevent mold growth in your home.
1. Ventilate the bathroom.
Bathroom mold occurs more easily than you think. Some bathrooms do not have a vent fan; instead they rely on a window to help move air through the space when someone is bathing or showering.
Many people do not realize that keeping the window open is important when there is no vent fan. Without the ventilation, moisture condenses on the walls, and even gathers behind tiles. Wooden vanities can swell with the moist environment, and mildew begins to grow. Sometimes, this mold problem is invisible, growing behind shower enclosures and underneath paint. But eventually, you will start to notice damage, and it often can be prevented by running the fan or opening the window during and after a shower.
2. Check basement for leaks and condensation.
Every spring, check your basement for signs of water. Most homes have some form of water proofing to help keep water out of the basement, but it can fail or the foundation can settle or change over time. Spring is a good time to check for leaks because snow melts and there is increased rain, so the soil around your home is very wet -- if there are leaks, this is when they will be the most noticeable. Check the corners, lift up carpeting, and check for moist concrete in unfinished areas. If you notice even a slight dampness, call a basement waterproofer, like one from Safe-Way Waterproofing, who can address the problem. Even slight dampness in the basement can cause mold growth, especially if the basement is finished.
3. Run a dehumidifier.
Finally, you can run a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the home. Home moisture can increase during the summer because warm air holds more water than cold air does. A very moist indoor air quality can make it easier for existing mold spores to spread and settle on carpeting, wood surfaces, drywall, and furniture. Basements often are the area that need dehumidifiers the most, as they don't have as much air exchange as the main floor.
Contact a mold specialist in your area for more information.