How to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Highland Home

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Preventing mold in your home can be easier than you think with these tips!

Mold spores occur naturally in the environment so there is no way to actual eradicate them from the air BUT, mold spores thrive in dark and humid areas, which are perfect homes for microbial growth to spread and flourish. If you have a basement, crawl space or attic, chances are good that you already know how persistent mold can be. 

Due to mold’s possible effects on one’s health, it’s important to try to inhibit any growth of colonies and have it remediated immediately if it does occur. However, having mold in your home does not have to be something you just deal with.

Here’s some great tips for mold prevention for any household space:

1. Reduce Humidity-

Mold loves high humidity and needs it to grow, this is often present in basements (you might notice it around your hot water heater or furnace) and other tight quarters in a home. Try to keep humidity levels within 30 to 50%. A dehumidifier can help a good deal, just be sure to check it often for any malfunctions or needing to empty the water out.

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 or floors. If you’ve had water damage in those areas, get it dried out and remediated quickly to discourage mold growth.

4. Direct Water Away from Your Home-

Mold spores need 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 directing water 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. Additionally, foundation leaks can cause problems, speak with a contractor to seal up any leaks or holes in the foundation where water/moisture could be coming in.

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. Neglected water leaks can cause costly structural issues and mold growth, 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. No two policies are the same, best to get the clear facts of coverage from your insurance agent.

6. 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. Get that dryer vent cleaned yearly to avoid mold spores collecting.

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.