Easy ways to prevent mold in your Ulster County attic, basement or crawl space.

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

There are some easy steps to follow so you don't find this nasty microbial growth in your attic!

Mold spores thrive in dark and humid areas, these environments create the ideal place for microbial growth to spread and flourish. If you have a basement, crawl space or attic, it is likely that you already know how persistent mold can be. 

Due to mold’s effects on health, it is extremely important to prevent it when possible and have it remediated immediately when it occurs. However, having mold in your home does not have to be a way of life.

Here’s some great tips for mold prevention in your basement, attic or crawl space (really for any cramped or tight household space):

1. Reduce Humidity-

Mold loves high humidity and needs it to grow, this is often present in basements and other tight quarters in a home. Try to keep humidity levels within 30 to 50% with a dehumidifier to discourage microbial growth.

2. Store Soil Somewhere else-

Potting soil, mulch and indoor plants provide spaces for mold to thrive and an organic food source that it needs to keep growing. Keep these items stored somewhere other than the basement to discourage growth.

3. Keep Clutter to a Minimum-

Having clutter, items or debris in an area reduces airflow and ventilation in the room. Reduce general clutter, especially when it comes to cardboard boxes, clothing, fabric and books. Try using plastic sealable totes rather than boxes. Store items away from having direct contact with walls.

4. Direct Water Away From Your Home-

Mold requires moisture to thrive, so ensuring there is as little moisture as possible flowing toward the home will discourage it from growing. Landscaping and drainage paths should be crafted in such a way that water is directed away from the home and not allowed to gather around the structure. Keep an eye on your downspouts from the gutters and other drainage spots during your regular home maintenance.

5. Don’t Let Leaks Linger-

Leaks provide the perfect environment for mold to develop, and they can cost you an extensive amount of money in wasted water and the costs to treat and remediate it, so fixing them ASAP is best. Get a good handle on your homeowner’s insurance policy as well, some leaky situations might be covered, but some may not.

6. Make Use of a Fan-

Using a fan helps with air circulation and further reduces humidity. Airing out the basement and crawl spaces will help ventilation and discourage mold from occurring. Be mindful of the electricity and connections involved to make sure there are no fire hazard risks.

7. Reduce Factors That Create Humidity

If you have laundry or air conditioning units in the basement, be sure they are properly ventilating to the outside. Avoid carpeting or rugs, which can hold moisture. Do not dry wet clothes in the basement as the air can grow more humid as they dry.

If you’ve discovered mold in your basement or anywhere else in your home, we are here to help! SERVPRO of Kingston/New Paltz has licensed mold technicians on staff. Give us a call immediately to learn about our mold remediation services and to schedule a FREE ESTIMATE.