Indoor mold is the enemy of every homeowner. Aside from damaging the structures that they grow on, mold can also cause health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold exposure can cause a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing or wheezing, burning eyes, or skin rash, while those with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions.
Mold is a common and serious household problem that can put your family’s health at risk and lower your property value. You can help prevent mold from growing in your home by following these 5 helpful tips.
Keep your indoor spaces clean and dry.
Mold grows or thrives in areas where there is moisture. So, your first step to preventing mold growth in your home should be keeping your indoor spaces clean and dry. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, if wet or damp areas are dried 24 to 48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases, mold will not grow.
Focus on maintaining your bathroom where mold usually starts to grow. Remember to wipe dry your shower walls and door after every use. For washing or cleaning your shower curtains and tile floors, using a mold-killing product helps a lot.
Fix water leaks around the house.
Do not let water build up anywhere. Take the time to look for water leaks around your home. Check under the sink, behind the toilet, and around the dishwasher and washing machine. Do not attempt to fix plumbing leaks on your own. Always ask the help of a licensed and skilled plumber.
Provide proper ventilation in high moisture areas.
A home with proper ventilation is less likely to grow mold. Opening the windows and allowing each room in the house to air out completely will help control mold spores, which are always in the air. When it is not possible to open the windows, install fans to improve air circulation, and help dry out damp areas. The crucial spots where fans should be installed include the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, basement, and attic.
Keep your roof gutters’ health in check.
Roof leaks are one of the common causes of mold growth in a home. Taking good care of your gutter system will help prevent roof leaks. Keep your roof gutter’s health in check by hiring professional gutter cleaning and maintenance services.
Upgrade your air conditioning system.
Air conditioners do not only work to cool your home but also remove moisture from the air. SafeAir Environmental Inc. recommends turning the air conditioning on as it helps prevent mold growth by helping dehumidify rooms and keep the air moving. To help with mold prevention in your home, ensure your air conditioner’s optimal functioning all year-round.
Prepare for the hot summer months by scheduling a professional AC repair and tune-up in spring. Make sure to hire a fully licensed and skilled HVAC company with many years of industry experience. Check out top-performing HVAC companies in your local area today!
